Barrie RoadRunners

Orillia Snowflake Series wrap up.

2012-01-09T06:48:00.004-05:00

With the final race yesterday the 2011/12 Orillia Snowflake series comes to an end.
It was a good series put on by CANI Running,with nice weather and of course tough competition as always. A number of Barrie Road Runners participated in the series and some great results and lots of fun. Nancy Chong finished the series winning her age group, Chris Dixon and Shawn Patton also placed in thier respective age groups as well. Logan Duffy was 3rd in his age group for the youth series. Other BRR that ran the entire series were Wayne Hodge, Jim Duffy, Anne Marie Dixon, Lisa Thurlow, and myself. Lisa and I posted PB's for the final race which always makes a race that much better. Tracy MacLean and Keith Lascelles were out for some of the races as well. Keith won his age group in the 10k New Years Day Race. After each race Brewery Bay provided pizza and wings. There were also lots of draw prizes that included gift certificates for CANI Races, MEC Headbands, and a pair of Snowshoes.
Congratulations to all the runners who participated. Now its full on Marathon training time for the spring.

Orillia Snow Flake Series

2011-11-20T14:03:00.001-05:00

The Snowflake Series is almost here!

The Snowflake is a fundraising series for the Sharing Place, a food bank in Orillia.
The goal of the Snowflake is to get people out and enjoying winter and to help out our local community.

The dates for the Snowflakes are:

27 November, 2011 -5km

18 December, 2011 -5km

1 January, 2011 -10km

8 January, 2011 -5km

For more information please visit www.canirunning.com/snowflake.htm

To make things run smoothly on race day please take advantage of our online registration, there is no online fee - you pay your entry on race day.

Happy Trails

Road to Hope Marathon

2011-11-07T15:36:00.004-05:00

On Sunday Nov 6th at the Road to Hope Marathon in Hamilton, Brendan Kavanaugh got his sub three hour marathon with a time of 2:58:24. Awesome racing weather and some BRR cheered him at a couple of points along the course and then watched him cross the finish line all smiles. Brendan was also 3rd in his age group. Well done and congrats Brendan.

Other Barrie Road Runners in the Marathon were;
Erin Barrie, 3:37
Bryan Pellerin, 3:39
Steen Klint, 3:52
Angela Rutherford, 4:06
Aniie Pilon, 4:08
Chris Battaglia, 4:19

In the Half Marathon;
Shawn Patton, 1:32
Dan Revell, 1:43
Tracy MacLean, 2:36 her official time was supposed to be adjusted by 5 minutes due to wating for a train to pass.many others were held up by the train.

Sorry for missing any other runners.

Borden Half Marathon

2011-10-19T18:00:00.001-04:00

This weekend is the Annual Borden Half Marathon a nice low key half in a great setting. For more infor got to http://www.events.runningroom.com/site/?raceId=6770Also the Borden race is looking for volunteers to look after registration and expo help on Friday and Saturday as well as Race volunteers for Sunday.To volunteer e-mail runbordenvolunteers@gmail.com

2011-10-19T17:34:00.000-04:00

Another Busy weekend for Barrie RoadRunners with a number of races on the go. There was the Toronto Scotiabank Waterfront Marathon, Vulture Bait Trail races, Columbus Marathon and as usual a few crazed fools doing back to back Marathons in Hartford and Rhode Island.

The Toronto results: these searches were for Barrie runners, if you want to view a runner from another local community put that towns name in the search field.

Marathon results

Half Marathon results

Vulture Bait –

50k –
Dawn Hamel - 4:49
Lisa Van Wolde – 4:53
Nathon Brooks – 5:03
Keith Lascelles – 5:06
Kiriam Thompson – 5:26
Chris Battaglia - 6:06

25k -
Rhonda Stickle – 2:05
Joan Lascelles – 2:42
Mona Antaya - 3:19
Matt Forder - 3:28
Michelle Bannerman – 3:28
Nerina Black - 3:28

Columbus Marathon –
Karen Dennison – 5:10
Karen Caldwell - 5:27
Cindy Marcelli - 5:27
Joan Van Hilten – 5:28

Back to Back Weekend

Hartford Marathon – Saturday Half Marathon -

Kevin O’Neill – 3:15 Christina O’Neill – 2:37
Jim Tuttle - 3:59 Cindie Tuttle – 2:46
Rick MacLean – 3:59

Breakers Marathon (Rhode Island) – Sunday

Kevin O’Neill – 3:15
Jim Tuttle - 4:11
Rick MacLean – 4:11

NC24

2011-09-23T22:49:00.001-04:00

Short Version:

I ran around and around and around and around and then I walked a little

Then I did it some more

And some more

And some more….

Long Version:

Back in January, some lunatics on RWOL forum brought up doing this 24hr event in Cleveland Ohio on Sept 17/18th. Seeing some of the awesome people doing this, I thought this was an opportunity I couldn’t miss. So I registered.

Lots of sharing ideas, tips and strategies in both the forum and FB

Training went well for the most part, several ultras and marathons, including some back to backs. Multiple races. Night runs, and lots of long runs.

One setback, after a couple of days off for recovery from one event, came down with a flu like bug, that kept me from running for two weeks, leaving two weeks to finish preparing for this race.

Finally after much anticipation, I headed for Ohio. Most of my gear was packed Thursday night and Friday I packed the last and hit the road at 7am. An uneventful drive, with a few pit stops and no troubles at the border, I arrived at my hotel around 2pm.

Met a few of the runners at the hotel as we headed out for an FE at the park where the race would take place.

I decided to make it easy for everyone to recognize me and dressed exactly as my avatar on the forum/FB.

Proving that straightjackets do come in tech fabric.

It was great, pizza and lots of snacks and a lot of new friends.

But we kept it to a reasonable hour, with the big race in the morning.

I managed 8hrs sleep Friday night and got up with plenty of time to get ready and eat my usual breakfast of Chicken Fried Rice.

7:30 we headed for the race site, which was only 5 minutes away, and dropped our gear at the RWBF encampment.

Picked up our swag, bib and chip and spent the next while getting ready and meeting the rest of our group, runners and crew, who couldn’t make it out Friday night.

Finally race time rolls around, we have the runners meeting, Susan, one of our group, sings the National Anthem, we line up and we’re off at 9am.

Some of the group head out fast, some decide to walk the first lap, I go out running at a moderate pace. I do the first loop in my straight jacket just for fun, and drop it as I pass through our aid station, just into the 2^nd loop, running in my RunningFree short sleeve shirt and compression shorts.

There had been lots of talk about strategies, 4 and 1s, run two loops walk one, etc. I go a little more aggressively, run 5 miles, walk .25 miles. As I passed through our aid station just before the walk, I would grab one of my handhelds from my cooler for the walk break. I had two handhelds, one for Gatorade and one for Perpetuem. Which I alternated each break. After the first time through I would alert the crew to which handheld I wanted, a lap before, and they would have it ready the next time I came by.

In addition, every 3 hours I would walk a full loop, eating an energy bar from my cooler and drinking from my handheld, having grabbed those as I passed through.

The crew were great at refilling my handhelds from 2 liter jugs from my cooler. They were quite apologetic for having taken them from the cooler so that they could thaw out and be poured. They were still frozen from Friday morning. Of course it was nice having cold drinks as the day warmed up.

As it warmed up, I did a quick change to my RunningFree singlet and started drinking more from both the official aid station and ours. Also ate pretzels and later pizza (during a walk break) from our aid station.

Let it be noted when I say that it warmed up, I am referring to everywhere but the north side of the loop, where the wind off the lake kept it cool, almost cold.

At 8 hours in I made a planned sock and shoe change, no issues with the previous shoes, just wanted to change it up for the feet.

At 8.5 hrs swapped my Garmin for my ironman watch as I was getting a steady low battery warning. Forgot to turn off the Garmin and it ran for another 5 hours telling me I went absolutely nowhere (don’t think it would have lasted 5 hrs if it was still tracking laps).

As it got dark, I made a clothing change, switched to my RunningFree long sleeve shirt, compression briefs, knee high compression socks and light weight long pants. Also grabbed my knuckle lights for illumination. After a bit I only ran with the one knuckle light rather than the pair, as one provided enough light and it saved on batteries. I ran down both lights during the night, as well as one extra set of batteries.

For the first 15 hours I followed the same strategy of running and fuelling with energy bars, and the odd piece of pizza. At about his point I developed some discomfort in my left shin. As I had a scheduled shoe change at 16hrs, I decided to tough it out and leave it until then, but did increase my walk breaks to .25 miles every 3 miles. Mistake. Should have changed my shoes then.

As I did the shoe change at 16 hours my left ankle ballooned up as soon as I pulled the shoe off. Don’t know if changing the shoe an hour earlier would have prevented this, but it might have been a factor. Pulled on another pair of knee high compression socks, tied the left shoe up loosely, grabbed my RunningFree jacket and headed back out.

Now with the ankle swollen I had to adjust my running plan. For the rest of the night I would walk about two loops and run about three. Starting the walk break from our aid station and restarting the running from just past the hill as we turned onto the north loop just beyond our aid station. Sometimes on the first run loop I would also walk from the porta potties at half way to the top of the incline as we turned onto the south side. (The shin did not bother me after the first extended walk break).

During these longer walk breaks I also fuelled more, lots of potato soup and noodles from the main aid station. But his was more from a desire to get something warm into me, rather than a fuelling requirement. As the night progressed it got pretty chilly, but it was such a contradiction. As I travelled into the wind, especially on the walking loops, on the north side, I would tell myself, as soon as I hit our aid station, “I’m grabbing my heavier jacket and maybe my gloves”. But as soon as I travelled down the south side, especially while running, I was loosening off my jacket and thinking don’t stop for the heavier gear. As the south side lead into our aid station this thinking won out every time.

Contrary to popular belief, I did sleep. During three or four of my walking loops on the north side, I would doze off until I walked off the trail. Too many curves in the trail to get a good sleep, the trail I trained on at home is straighter (the group thought I was joking when I posted on FB that I would sleep while running).

Finally with about a half hour to go, I dumped my jacket and I was determined to run through until the end. With the brightening morning and the return of many to the trails, I continued to pick up the pace. As I passed through loop 101 I was given my block to mark my stop to carry. As I passed through the main aid station I grabbed a quick cup of water, while still moving. The aid station worker asked if I wanted coffee the next time around. I said “hell no, I’ll still be running”. I passed through loop 102 with 8:56 remaining on the clock and determination to get as far around as possible. I continued to pass runners as I travelled around and as I ran down the south side I heard the 1 min countdown begin. I opened it up as much as I could, rounded the corner onto the final stretch and was 30ft from the finish when time ran out. I had managed the last loop in 10m/m pace after almost 24hrs, 92 miles and on a bum ankle and I felt good.

I finished with a total of 92.72 miles. 54^th out of 186 (I lapped the guy in front of me in the standings on that last loop).

My goals had been: to break 100 miles; and although I came up short, I’m quite happy with the results, as I know if the ankle hadn’t swollen up I would have made that easily.

And to keep moving for the full 24hrs (minus, of course, the planned pit stops to change clothes and shoes). Which I accomplished.

I never had any doubts about doing this. Felt strong the whole time, no emotional swings, just a bit of frustration with my ankle.

Lessons learned:

I need to do other exercises than just running (ankle strengthening comes to mind).

Shouldn’t have gone out as aggressively. Shorter runs and longer walks to begin with.

That the RWBF runners, many of who I took time to run or walk with, are the coolest and great friends.

The Crew deserve an incredible amount of thanks for helping me and all the others get through this. They are the best. Some great friendships here too.

There was a lot of craziness out there this weekend. I had brought an extra straightjacket for the craziest in our group. I wish I could have brought straightjackets for all of them, they’re all a bunch of loonies.

One good thing with the conservative last 8 hours, was a quick recovery. After dealing with a few blisters and wearing a tensor for ankle support/protection I was able to get back out running on Tuesday. Looking good for my next 50k.

Pictures from the event: http://www.flickr.com/photos/goellnitz/sets/72157627573998317/

A weekend of Racing

2011-09-19T07:17:00.002-04:00

It seems the fall racing season has started and there were some impressive results on the weekend. Brendan Kavanagh came 13th in the Run for the Grapes Half Marathon in St. Catharines in a very quick 1:21, followed shortly after by Darren Collins.In Cleveland, Ohio Chris Battaglia competed in the North Coast 24 hour event and completed 92 miles, blowing away all his distance milestones in one day. Congrats Chris on a great job.In Dayton, Ohio the Tuttles, the MacLeaniacs and Erin Barrie ran in the Airforce Marathon and half. Cindie Tuttle was our lone rep in the Half and ran it in 2:50,Erin Barrie finished the Full in 3:46, Jim Tuttle in 3:44, Angie Tuttle in 5:26, Rick MacLean in 3:46 and Tracy in 5:55.Well done everyone.

ENDURrun +

2011-09-05T23:08:00.002-04:00

There are a lot of crazy runners in Ontario. In fact we have our own event. It’s called the ENDURrun.

The ENDURrun is 7 races in 8 days, covering 160km (99.4miles).

I, being a complete lunatic, decided I would also throw in a 6hr trail race, the day before the ENDURrun started.

So Friday night I have my usual wieners and beans and head to bed at a reasonable hour. Only to be hit with sinus congestion from a head cold I had been trying to fight off. This resulted in the worst night’s sleep I have ever had before a race. Finally out of bed and had some Chicken Fried Rice for breakfast and off to the race.

Race #1: Aug 6th, The Dirty Girls 6hr Trail Run. This takes place at Mansfield Outdoor Center. I have run here before and it’s a tough course. The route I’m running this day is different than my previous race here. Today’s race consists of 10k loops, with 6hr cutoffs at 2.1, 5 and 7.5k.

Swag for this race is nice, instead of a shirt we get sleeves. One with the super Dirty Girls logo and the other with, for the ladies: “dirty girl” and for the guys: “I did the dirty girls”.

8am and we’re off. I’ve taken sinus and allergy medication and breathing is good. I didn’t bother carrying water on the first loop as I thought the aid stations would be more frequent, approx. every 2.5k. But they ended up only having aid stations at 5k and the start/finish. It was getting warm and humid by the end of the first loop, so I grabbed my water belt and some partially frozen bottles from my cooler and headed into loop two. I was giving Perpetuem a try during a race for the first time. I had used it once during training and found it not very thirst quenching. This time I used the maximum recommended amount of water. So I’m carrying one 8oz bottle of Perpetuem and another of water. 2^nd loop is a little slower as I’m feeling the humidity, hills and lack of sleep. I started eating pretzels at the aid stations half way through this loop. Still on track to meet my goal though. Started the third loop be switching out my two empty bottles for two fresh frozen ones. I’m going through them a little faster now too, although I still have a little ice in the water bottle at the 5k aid station, where I top it up. Slower again this loop and finish with enough time to meet my minimum goal, if I don’t fade any further. Two fresh bottles and out for the fourth loop. Still struggling and thirsty, could be the Perpetuem. At the 5k aid station I realize I won’t meet my minimum goal (besides the next 2.1 cutoff is short of my actual minimum goal), I decide to dial it back a little and save some for the rest of the week. I finish the fourth loop in 5:53:00 and call it a day at 40k.

I receive my Dirty Girls super medal, have a burger, visit briefly with a few running friends and head out to Waterloo Ontario for the ENDURrun.

The ENDURrun consists of an Ultimate Event, consisting of 7 runs/stages. Patterning itself as a Tour de France of running. The first stage is a Half Marathon on the Sunday. This gives you your placing for stage 2, a 15k time trial. Stage 3 is a 30k Trail Run. Stage 4 is a 10 mile hill run. Stage 5 a 25.6k alpine cross country run. Stage 6 a 10k time trial and finishes with stage 7 a marathon. The male and female leader after each stage wears a yellow singlet. The male and female runners with the best combined time for stages 4 and 5 are awarded as King of the Hill and the male and female runners with the best combined times for stages 2 and 6 are awarded as Speed Kings at the end of the event. The ENDURrun also has a sport event consisting of the last three stages. A relay event , where teams of 2 to 7 compete through the 7 stages. As well there are limited entries for guest runners for each stage, where individuals can run various stages throughout the week.

The ENDURrun starts with an event meeting on Saturday night for all the ultimate runners, where we do a meet and greet as well as discuss some of the event details. Here we pick up our race swag, have light refreshments and receive an open invitation to use the pool and hot tub at the RD’s house, where this meeting takes place, throughout the event.

https://picasaweb.google.com/runwaterloo/ENDURrun2011PreRaceMeeting

https://picasaweb.google.com/runwaterloo/ENDURrunPreRaceMeetingByRyanShootTheThrill

Stage 1: Aug 7th, the Half Marathon. 8am Sunday morning, a two loop course starts off pretty good but I just can’t get my quads to loosen up after the hilly trail race on Saturday. A couple of nasty little hills on the course, but I get through them okay. Pass a couple of runners in the last loop, without getting passed myself. Still ended up finishing almost 15 min slower than I wanted in 2:13. Lots of great food after burgers, tacos, fajitas’, salads, veggies, fruit and fresh made smoothies. Took advantage of the available massage and had them work on my quads.

2:12:55. 21^st out of 22 Male Ultimates, 27^th out of 29 overall

https://picasaweb.google.com/runwaterloo/ENDURrun2011Stage1HalfMarathonByRyanShootTheThrill

https://picasaweb.google.com/runwaterloo/ENDURrun2011Stage1HalfMarathon

Stage 2: Aug 8th, the 15k Time Trial. 8am Monday morning a one loop course with a tough uphill for 1/2k at 1.5k, with a corresponding downhill at 8k. A few rollers throughout the course, as well as a mix of terrain, mostly road, but some paved and gravel paths, grass and chip trails. We start off in the reverse order of our stage 1 finish, slowest first, followed at 1 minute intervals by the next runner. I start 4^th. I feel good and catch and pass the runners in front of me and at 2k I am in the lead. Unaware where any of the runners behind me are, I keep pushing the pace. Finally on a small out and back stretch, I see where my pursuers are. I get some good stretches for running and start pushing harder. I cross the finish line first, having held off all the faster runners, although many closed the gap. More good food, substituting rolls and cold cuts for the hot food. After a massage for my quads and right hamstring which was bothering me from the pace and camber of the roads. Then over to one of the crews house for a pool party.

1:25:48. 18^th out of 21 males, 23^rd out of 28 overall.

https://picasaweb.google.com/runwaterloo/ENDURrun2011Stage2ByAndrewPearson

https://picasaweb.google.com/runwaterloo/ENDURrun2011Stage215K

https://picasaweb.google.com/runwaterloo/ENDURrunStage2ByVickiShootTheThrill

Stage 3: Aug 9th, the 30k Trail Run. 8am Tuesday morning, a 6 loop 5k course, on a rainy day. Aid station at 2.5k and start finish. I was going to give the Perpetuem another try at 10 and 20k. Started off pretty good and the first two loops went pretty well, although my left hamstring which I neglected to have massaged on Monday started complaining. On the third loop I walked the biggest hill for the first time. Fourth loop started the same but I found myself having to walk the 2^nd biggest hill as well. I was also having difficulty recovering my breath after this hill, partially due to the rain sodden heavy air. On the 5^th loop, more of the same. I also walked one flat stretch for a minute or two, keeping company encouraging one of the other runners struggling badly. Managed to pick up a little in the 6^th loop and finished in 3:35. More good food, a massage for both quads and hammies. Stuck around until the badly struggling runner finished. And of course at this point the rain finally stopped.

3:36:20. 20^th out of 21 males. 26^th out of 28 overall.

https://picasaweb.google.com/runwaterloo/ENDURrun2011Stage330K

https://picasaweb.google.com/runwaterloo/ENDURrun2011Stage330K2

Stage 4: Aug 10th, the 10 mile hill run. This race is scheduled for 6pm on Wednesday night to allow a little recovery from yesterday’s trail race. This race is an out and back that takes place on Wilmot Line, home of Horror Hill.

Legs feel the best they have all week, although I do get a small twinge in my left hammie as we start off, but it quickly passes. I start off with one of the younger runners and we push the pace for first couple of k. Finally he loses me at horror hill as I have to walk it. I do manage to “run” all the other hills. Although pathetically slow and am passed by several runners. However I have great strength on the downhills and pass all but one of the runners who passed me as well as a few others. I manage to make up enough ground on the downs, that I can hold off the other runners on the final uphill. Massage again for quads and hammies. A BBQ after leading into a rest day on Thursday.

1:29:26. 17^th out of 21 males. 21^st out of 28

https://picasaweb.google.com/runwaterloo/ENDURrun2011Stage410HillyMiler

https://picasaweb.google.com/runwaterloo/ENDURrunStage4ByRyanShootTheThrillPt1

https://picasaweb.google.com/runwaterloo/ENDURrunStage4ByRyanShootTheThrill02

Thursday I meet with some of the group for lunch and beer, although I passed on the beer float. Hot tub and pool and generally relaxed.

Stage 5: Aug 12th, 25.6 alpine cross country run. 8 am Friday, a 5 loop 5.12k course at a local man made ski hill. We start out in the chalet parking lot, quickly transition into some grass running followed by some mountainbike trail. This leads us to our first climb, up a dirt access road on the back of one of the ski hills. This road is deceiving, as just as you think you’re nearing the top it rounds a bend and more up, twice. Across the top of the hill and into a small loop of more mountain bike trail on the backside pf the hill. Back up and the first major decent. Straight down the ski slope. Across the bottom and then straight up another ski slope. Straight down another ski slope and then back up on a mountain bike trail that wraps around the end of the hill. Probably the easiest ascent , but definitely tougher as the day progressed. Finally straight down a last ski slope and into the loop finish. To do it again 4 more times.

Despite the early start it was getting quite warm as the day progressed, especially on the open ski slopes. At the end of the third loop I grabbed my sponge bandana from my cooler and draped it around my neck. It certainly helped especially on the uphill ski slope, where I would wring it out over my head. Then I would dip it in a sponge bucket at the aid stations. Still struggled on the uphills and was flying the downhills. Massage for the quads and hammies after then up to the RD’s for hot tub and pool.

3:23:46. 16^th out of 21 males. 20^th out of 28

https://picasaweb.google.com/runwaterloo/ENDURrun2011Stage5265K

https://picasaweb.google.com/runwaterloo/ENDURrun2011Stage5265KPart202

Stage 6: Aug 13th, 10 k time trial. 8am on Saturday on our only point to point race. A couple of small rollers but a net downhill run. This is the most popular race and gets the most guest runners. Based on our accumulated time, and the projected times from the guests, we again start slowest first. As I also had a couple of good hill runs I’m starting further back this time. It’s also strategy time. My closest rival is about 6 min behind. Do you go all out to try to widen the gap or do you save some for the marathon tomorrow. I start the first 5k hard and pass my rival in 3k (he is having gi troubles allowing me to catch him quicker). After pushing the first 5k and widening the gap, as well as passing several other runners. I dial it back for the next 3k. 2k to go and I try to pick it up again, but the legs are getting fatigued. I don’t catch a few runners in front and with half a k to go I get passed by one of the faster runners. I pick it up for the last half k but can’t catch him. This probably is a mistake leading into the marathon. Although I did gain another 4 min on my rival. This race ends at the RD’s house, where we’re served brunch, get our massages and some people use the hot tub and pool. Later that night we return to the RD’s house for a wrap up BBQ and use the hot tub and pool once again.

52:50. 19^th out of 21 males. 24^th out of 28 overall.

https://picasaweb.google.com/runwaterloo/ENDURrun2011Stage610K

https://picasaweb.google.com/runwaterloo/ENDURrunStage6ByRyanShootTheThrill

Stage 7: Aug 14th, the marathon. 7:30 Sunday Morning (although 6 runners, including my rival, opt for a 7 am start). A 2 loop course. Race starts and right off the bat I know I’m in trouble. Left hammie is aching and doesn’t want to loosen up, plus just general fatigue in the legs. I know I can finish, so I just have to keep on moving. Frequent aid stations and I’ve stashed frozen bottles of Perpetuem at a couple of them. I finished the first half only a couple of minutes faster than my half to start the week. I cross the lines with my hands in the air as if I’ve just completed the marathon, telling the race photographer to get my finish picture now as it won’t be pretty at the end of the second loop. 2^nd loop is more of the same except warmer, so drinking lots more and getting slower. Finally round the corner to the finish with 100 meters to go and see that I have a chance to beat 4:30, so I give whatever I have left and cross the line at exactly 4:30.

Rehydrated, got my massage and enjoyed one last good meal. Congratulated all the other runners. Today we had our first drop out, a runner who’s knee went in the first half and dropped from the series at the end of the first loop. Hopefully a quick recovery and he tries again next year. My rival finished in 4:31 so I maintained my lead/placing.

4:30:00. 19 out of 20 males. 24 out of 27 overall.

https://picasaweb.google.com/runwaterloo/ENDURrunStage7ByRyanShootTheThrill

https://picasaweb.google.com/runwaterloo/ENDURrun2011Stage7MarathonPart2

https://picasaweb.google.com/runwaterloo/ENDURrun2011Stage7Marathon

There are also 4 videos here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uGgZp6IxCFM&feature=youtu.be

With more to come

ENDURrun Overall, 160k 17:31:35. 19^th out of 20 males. 24 out of 27 overall.

The awards ceremony was done and a couple of us headed back to the RD’s house for one last soak in the hot tub and pool before our drive home.

Monday, I feel like I’ve been run over by a truck. As the cold I was fighting at the beginning of the week has returned.

2011-08-31T17:15:00.001-04:00

I hit 39,000 lifetime miles during my run this morning. (It took me almost exactly 13 years to run that many miles.) And so I give you … 39 lessons learned from 39,000 miles. 1. I think the “secret” to why I am a successful high mileage runner is I did not rush into running long distances early in my running career. Running is a sport that rewards those who are patient. It is not really a sport for those looking for immediate gratification. For the first few years of my running life, I ran moderate mileage and focused my attention on excelling in the shorter races – up to about 10K. It was not until I had been running for four years that I began running even half-marathons, let alone began to tackle even longer distances. It takes time to build your bone structure, time to build up your tendons, muscles, etc. These things don’t happen over night; they happen over a period of months and ultimately years. I absolutely credit not rushing into running longer distances for why I have been successful running high mileage for many years with relative lack of injury. 2. You will never truly appreciate running until it is taken from you. Understand and embrace the concept that running is a gift. Appreciate it. It can be taken from you. 3. It’s about wanting to make the time. It may mean running at the crack of dawn, but if running is a priority to you, then you will find, or make, the time. 4. You don’t really need fancy technical clothes. You can run just fine in a cotton t-shirt. 5. The old Adidas ads from the late 90s early 2000s about runners being different … Very true. Runners are different. 6. This is an unfortunate fact, but it is very true. Runners can get sick. Just because you are young, or have a resting heart rate of 35, or can run a 2:45 marathon doesn’t make you immune to having a heart attack. Or being diagnosed with cancer. If your body is telling you something is wrong, do not ignore it. And do not let doctors dismiss you because you are seemingly the healthiest person they’ve seen that day. Delays in diagnosis can be fatal. 7. If you do happen to win the bad luck lottery and you get cancer and you are a hardcore runner, then you should make sure to ask your oncologist, “Doc, can I keep running?” If he answers you by saying something to the effect of, “If I told you not to run, we both know you’d just run anyway,” you will know you have found the right doctor. 8. Always keep a sense of humor about your running. 9. No matter how right you are, you will never win against a car. There’s a phrase: “Dead Right.” You don’t want to be “Dead Right.” Run defensively and assume every driver you encounter is inattentive and a moron. Let them prove you wrong. 10. Ninja night running is not cool. It’s dumb. As a runner, I’m much more aware of pedestrians than the average driver, and even I’ve nearly run down people who insist on wearing dark clothing with just a tiny bit of reflective striping. Wear bright colors, wear a headlamp, wear a reflective vest if you’re running in the dark. Give the drivers at least a chance to see you. 11. When you race or are around other runners, be a good citizen. Look before you spit or blow your nose. Don’t just stop dead in the middle of the course for your walk break. Don’t throw your cup of water into another runner’s path. Don’t cut in front of others in the chute if they are tearing off tags for placement. Be a good sport. Cheer and encourage the other runners. 12. If you’re not competitive or don’t enjoy races, then you don’t need to race. You’re no less of a runner. 13. Take pride in your running, but don’t become a haughty arrogant arse towards others if/when you’re successful. 14. It’s a race. It’s ok to run as hard as you can. And yes you’re supposed to try and out kick the other runners at the end (if they get mad at you for it, they’re the poor sport, not you). Just don’t sandbag just so you can launch a big kick at the end. And don’t hotdog it. That’s being a poor sport and that’s lame. 15. Runners like routine. But runners need to be adaptable and flexible too. 16. Non-runners don’t care about running. They think running is boring. You should generally avoid talking about running with non-runners. Also, resist the urge to try and “convert” people to running. If a person expresses an interest in running to you, of course you should try to encourage them and help them. But don’t become some sort of running evangelist. 17. Non-runners who do take an interest in running will frequently obsess over the health of your knees. They will also be liable to tell you that you are too skinny. It is best to simply change the subject and try not to reason with non-runners. 18. If you are a woman runner, you probably will at least occasionally encounter unwanted attention from “men.” I use the term “men” loosely because real men don’t hoot and holler at women and treat them as objects. The best advice I can give you is to ignore them. They want attention, and if you flip them off or interact with them, you’ve given them what they want. I have found running first thing in the morning avoids most of the problems. 19. Running is not always an easy sport to love. Sometimes running needs to sleep on the couch for awhile. 20. Learn to distinguish the difference between discomfort and pain. The line between them is often subtle. Running fast or hard causes discomfort. Real, actual pain means something is wrong. 21. If you run, then you are a runner. It’s really that simple. I promise. 22. Enjoy and take pleasure in the successes of your friends who also run. You more than anyone else knows what it takes to improve at running. And running is better enjoyed that way, really. 23. Never stop learning about the sport. Even someone who has been running for many years can learn stuff. Read about running and learn something about physiology so you can train more effectively. Be willing to try different things and mix up your training. 24. Never start a running streak if you have an obsessive personality. The streak WILL eventually control you. 25. You will make mistakes as a runner. Everyone does. That’s ok. Just try not to repeat them and try to learn from them. 26. Take the opportunity when you have it to learn from more experienced runners. 27. Your body is not a machine. There are a myriad of factors some you control, some you don’t control, that affect how you run on a daily basis. 28. Sometimes you will just have a bad run. Everyone does. It’s ok to try and figure out why, but if you can’t figure it out, don’t obsess over it. Just move on and try again tomorrow. 29. Make running a part of your life, but don’t let it rule your life. 30. The shoe company will change your favorite shoe. And not for the better usually. It is inevitable. That’s why it is always good to have a few shoe models that you like. 31. Mud. Every runner should occasionally get muddy. It’s good for the soul. 32. We’re each an experiment of one, especially when it comes to stuff likes what to eat or drink when running. You need to find what works for you. 33. There will always be someone who is faster than you. And even if you are the fastest, your time will pass. 34. Motivation and drive ultimately has to come from within. 35. I worked with a vet at a racetrack in high school. I learned that horses are beautiful, but they also are big and many of them are quite, uh, how can I put this nicely … dumb. When encountering a horse on the trail, always give it a very wide berth and don’t make any fast moves. 36. Yes, you can run in the winter. Yes, you can run over snow and ice. You just have to slow down. And be careful. And be smart. And be flexible. 37. You will not melt if you run in the rain. If it’s chilly, dress a little warmer (5-10 degrees cooler). Put on a baseball style cap. And just go. That said there are few things more miserable than doing a run in a 35-40 degree driving rain. You have my permission to run on the treadmill at that point. 38. Hills are good for you. Seek them out. However, know that if a hill has a name, it’s probably going to be a BIG hill. 39. Runners run for different reasons. Your reasons may change as your life changes. That’s ok. This entry was posted in Running, Running Stuff. Bookmark the permalink. Follow any comments here with the RSS feed for this post. Post a comment or leave a trackback: Trackback URL.

Simcoe Shores Relay Results

2011-08-27T10:31:00.000-04:00

Finally the results are out for last weekends Simcoe Shores Relay. A great day was had by all in a mix of weather conditions. Barrie was well represented

The FOGS were 5th over all and 3rd in the Open Over 45 age group,Barrie RoadRunners 2 were 16 and 6th in the same age group. The Sole Sisters 1 and 2 were 2nd and 3rd in the womens group, Barrie Dashers 2 and 1 were 4th and 5th in the Mixed Over 45 group.

Simcoe Shores Relay

2011-08-17T10:58:00.001-04:00

240km! Over 24 hours with anywhere from 4 to 7 team mates crammed in a stinky van, which will get stinkier by the hour, listening to the whining about injuries an d how tired we are... How much better can it be? Well last year it was awesome and this year looks to be at least as good. There are 28 teams signed up to do the full distance with at least nine of them from Barrie. It all starts Saturday morning at Heritage Park in Barrie, finishing at the town of the Blue Mountains on Sunday. Good luck to everyone.

Barrie Waterfront Half Marathon

2011-08-16T17:51:00.001-04:00

This past Sunday was the inaugural Barrie Waterfront Half Marathon and a great day it was with good, but humid, weather and some very impressive times. A sucessfully run event with great volunteers and somewhat challenging course. For all the results go to Chiptime results

Another Half Marathon in our Region

2011-07-05T10:19:00.000-04:00

If you can't make it to the Barrie Half Marathonon August 14th or maybe you are looking for more, there is the Owen Sound Half Marathon on August 28th. The Bayshore Half Marathon details can be found at the link here: http://www.bayshorerace.com/

Barrie Waterfront Half Marathon is a Go

2011-06-30T20:41:00.001-04:00

Finally after more than 10 years Barrie has another Half Marathon. The race is to take place on August 14th and the course will be two out and backs, one along the north shore of Kempenfelt Bay and the other to the south side. The start and finish will be at Centennial Beach. To register go to
http://www.events.runningroom.com/site/?raceId=7113

Limberlost

2011-06-10T11:30:00.002-04:00

Hi,

The snow has long gone, so now it is time for some summer racing in Muskoka. In addition to hosting Muskoka'shoe, I also co-host The Limberlost Challenge, which is on July 16th, just five weeks away. Last year we had almost 300 participants.

The 14km course runs alongside five lakes and a wetland. The scenery is spectacular.

To make the race even better than last year we will have CHIP timing, staggered starts, the addition of a trail marathon (3 loops), and camping for both the Friday and Saturday nights. There will be a 400 participant cap so if you plan on joining us this year, book your spot soon at https://www.onlineregistrations.ca/limberlost/

Check out the website at www.thelimberlostchallenge.com . There is an FAQ section that will answer many of your questions. Email me if you have any others. Take a look at the video and photos from last years race.

There will be two training runs using the 14km loop that you will see on race day. They are at 10:00am on Saturday 25 June and 10:00am on Sunday 26 June. To accommodate all runners we will go at an easy pace, stopping at key intersections so that we can re-group. HEED or eLoad, plus plain water will be available at the south end of Buck Lake(about the 6.5km mark). Email me at neil@thelimberlostchallenge.com if you will be joining us.

All the best to you.

Neil Jefferson

The Toronto Women's Only Half Marathon - May 29th 2011

2011-06-06T07:52:00.008-04:00

I managed to snaffle Cindy M's bib for the 3rd Annual Toronto Women's Only Half Marathon, I figured I should try and get some race legs back get my mileage up a little be & gain some confidence back.

I ran the inaugral Women's only. I'm not a huge fan of races in Parks mainly because they are not closed off to the public and you have to dodge folks walking their dogs, with strollers, walking hand in hand enjoying each other's company on a fine Sunday morning. Not condusive to a focused run, not in my opinion.

The start was done in three waves - each bib was colour coded based on your stated finish time. I snuck into the last wave to start the run with Sandra. We started almost 6 minutes after the gun went off.

The race is run through Sunnybrook Park & starts near Eglinton/Leslie follows the path down towards Pottery road, but due to contruction we had to turn just after the 6k mark and then nip down this little side area and then back on to the main path way to make up the distance.

I was running with Sandra Lalonde who in the last day was able to acquire a fellow RoadRunners bib, having bumped into Sandra at the movies the night before, I was informed that we would be running together. Well so much for my slow recovery run to ease myself into the distance. LOL. Sandra is always good company & great motivation.
So we were moving.
Finally we stopped just after the turn around at the 6k mark. We were on pace according to Sandra. I'm not sure what the pace was other than fast. LOL.

The water station with the firemen... non event for me, but a big hit with the ladies. I haven't figured it out yet, but there you go. Different strokes for different folks. Maybe it's my years being married to a Police Officer that has tarnished the luster of this. Who knows. At any rate, they should be thanked for coming out to support this run and POGO (Pediatric Oncology Group of Ontario) Thanks fellas for taking your shirts off for charity.

By the 10 K mark I was starting to breath a little heavier, the humidity was coming out to play & it wasn't playing nicely. Bad bad BAD humidity. Grrrr.
By the 14 K mark I told Sandra to run her own race, that I wasn't going to be able to keep up our pace. My calf muscle was doing okay, but my breathing was getting more laboured & my ITB was starting to ache.
I didn't want to hold Sandra up as that would just be more anxiety for me. This run was suppose to be about getting back into the swing of things.

Coming up to the 17 k mark, I had slowed down considerably but that was okay as my breathing became much more relaxed. I could get air finally. I was relaxing so the constriction in my chest loosened & breathing became easier.
At the 18 K mark I increased my walking as my ITB really wasn't happy at all. I could feel it just winding up for a big "BOING" ( yea folks that's a technical term) Yeeeshh everyone's a critic.

I neared the 19K mark and along with that the chocolate station. No time to eat / enjoy the choccie so I put it in my water belt pocket. Saving it for later.
Then over past the 20 K mark still doing my longer walks. I believe that I was about about the 20. 5 K mark and running rather reasonably when we hit the parking lot & some Einstein said " this is the last kilometer" ... " only one more to go" I just about did my nut. I think I was a bit grumpy. I was running to finish this race I had picked up the pace calculating everything to make sure I didn't injure myself but ran the last 1.1k & this gal threw that all off. I got so peeved I started to walk across the parking lot.
Then I realized she was completely wrong and started to run again.
I figured I would be crossing at around 2:40 and almost felt dispondent. Okay I did feel dispondent.
As I came out from under the over pass (ahahah that's funny) I could almost make out the timing clock. As I motored down the path I saw Jim T & Brendan K cheering in the runners. They almost looked out of place in their civvies.
The timing clock looming closer I read 2:25:xx. I didn't suck as badly as I thought. Sandra & I must have made some good time the first 14k. Yahhoo.

And since we were in the last wave I could subract almost 6 minutes from my time. My offical time was 2:20:44 which all things considering - was acceptable. I wasn't about to push it since my longest run had been 15.5 k the week before. I have no desire to reinjure myself and have to deal with another year of recovery.

Althugh I like the idea of a Women's Only race, I think that the venue isn't the greatest. Not only is there the fact the course isn't closed (however; most of the people in the park try to be respectful of the fact a race is in progress) but the trail is pretty much a single path and when there are runnings going both ways because the race is an out and back (and several turn arounds) space is at a premium, plus due to the rain the day before huge swampy patches that the ladies are picking through, holding up the run. I find it very frustrating.

I did manage to forget how many hills there are in the run too. Same thing I do with the Harry Rosen in High Park. ( but the trail in the park there is much wider)

The shirts this year seemed to fit rather "snuggly" I tried on the large that was in the race kit & it fit like a tailored medium. So the organizers may wish too look into this for next year.

The medal which is actually a necklace is very beautiful. Well thought out and a piece of jewelry that I haven't removed yet. The inaugral year they had the medals/necklaces hand made by Splash Pile jewelry. The last two years by Foxy Originals. I love it & a fantastic idea for a Women's Only race. Nothing better than jewelry and chocolate!!!

All in all I'd give this a 5 out of 10. Great atmosphere, just not a big fan of the course.

BIG SUR MARATHON 2011

2011-06-05T14:25:00.005-04:00

A group of our Barrie Road Runners recently travelled to California to take part in the Big Sur Marathon. This marathon is one of the most scenic and desireable races to do, especially as a destination California. Some took part in the 21 miler,the marathon, and 1, Steen Klint did the Boston 2 Big Sur challenge, meaning he ran the Boston Marathon 2011 and then Big Sur 2011. He was rewarded with 2 medals for this challenge.Everyone had a great and memorable race and I have heard nothing but rave reviews since they returned. Congtrats and it sounds like some will be going back again.

WIN Marathon 2011

2011-05-22T18:51:00.003-04:00

Congratulations to all who ran the 2nd annual Whitby Marathon today. Barrie RoadRunners in this event had a bueatiful day(no rain,no crazy heat) and participated in the 5K, Susan Robinson and Becky Ash, in the Half Marathon, Tracy MacLean, and in the full, Rick MacLean, Chris Battaglia, and running her first Marathon, Dawn Walton.The course was very well organized and had a bit of everything from pavement, trail, mud,wooden bridges, metal bridges, gentle rolling hills, inclines, lots of EMS on bikes, and smiling fans.Its a smaller event that will only get bigger.

2011-05-17T08:18:00.000-04:00

T-Shirt Etiquette (courtesy of www.ultrunr.com)

Humerous look at the wearing of Race T-shirts -Particularly from an Ultra perspective.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
In the ultra running community the wearing of race T-Shirts has become a sign of accomplishment and fashion. Choosing just the right T-Shirt for that special occasion can be a daunting and difficult task. The following guidelines have been compiled (in fun) to help the responsible T-shirt wearer avoid potential embarrassment and/or elevate their status.

1. A shirt cannot be worn unless the wearer has participated in the event. (crew, significant others and volunteers are exempt)

2. Any race, less than a marathon distance, shouldn't be worn to an ultra event. It simply doesn't represent a high cool factor and sends a red flag regarding your rookiness. If you set a PR at Pikes Peak Marathon, definitely wear that shirt whenever possible.

3. When returning to a race in which you previously finished, then wear the shirt from the first year you completed the race. Don't short change yourself by wearing the shirt from the year before. It doesn't adequately display the feat of accomplishment or the consummate veteran status that you are due.

4. Never wear a race shirt from the race you are about to run. It displays a lack of running integrity and might put the mojo on you.

5. Wearing a T-shirt of the race, while currently running said race, is discouraged. It's like being at work and constantly announcing "I'm at work". Besides, you wont have the correct post race shirt then.

6. Never wear a shirt from a run that you did not finish. To wear it is to say I finished it.

7. A DNF'er may wear a race shirt if... the letters DNF are boldly written on the shirt in question.

8. During a race the wearing of shirt from a previously completed year is acceptable. Wear the oldest T-shirt you have (see guideline #3). This is probably a good practice because you now have no excuse to drop out since you've done it before.

9. Runners should buy all crew members and, as appropriate, significant others (they let you run the race in the first place) T-shirts which can be worn without regard to running the race. (see guide #1)

10. Volunteers have full T-shirt rights and all privileges pertaining thereto.

11. No souvenir shirts therefore friends or anyone else not associated with the race may not wear a race shirt. If mom thinks that the Leadville shirt is lovely, tell he to send in her application early for next year so she can earn her own.

12. Wear the race shirt of your last race at the current race pre race briefing. The more recent the race the better. This is a good conversation starter. However avoid the tendency to explain how that it was a training run for this, and this is just a training run for the next, etc. It just sounds like your rationalizing mediocre performances. Sometimes it's best to live in the here and now. ("I've never been more prepared for a race! this is the big one!)

13. It must be clean (dried blood stains are okay)

14. If you've finished Hardrock 100 then wear it as often as possible, since the race is so damn hard.

15. Never wear a T-shirt that vastly out classes the event you're running (exception: see guideline #14) Example: Never wear a Western States 100 T-shirt at, say, Cool Canyon. Too many roadies will feel put down. It's okay to wear a WS100 or Leadville or Wasatch T-shirt at ultrarunner cult events such as Gibson Ranch or Jim Skophammer 24. It's probably not okay to wear your Trans-America footrace T-Shirt to your local around-the-lake Fat Ass 50k unless you want to psyche out the competition.

A corollary: never wear a blatantly prestigious T-shirt downtown. People will just think you have a big head, which you do.

If you don't know what things like DNF, WS100 or Crew are then you shouldn't wear any race shirt until you know what they mean.

T-shirts must be used sensitively. Worn responsibly, they can help expand one's consciousness and immerse you in a great conversation with your ultra brethren. Worn stupidly, they can cause blisters, vacant stares, sprained ankles, and cause social anxiety.
NOTE: Publicly these guidelines will be denied and possibly ridiculed by ultra runners, but privately and when discussed confidentially, they sing a different tune.

Marathon Great Grete Waitz dies at 57.

2011-04-19T15:23:00.000-04:00

Marathon great Grete Waitz dies at 57
OSLO - Grete Waitz, the Norwegian runner who won nine New York City Marathons and the silver medal at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics, died Tuesday after a six-year battle with cancer. She was 57.

Helle Aanesen, the manager of the Active Against Cancer Foundation in Norway, said Waitz died early Tuesday at the Ulleval University Hospital in Oslo.

A former Oslo schoolteacher, Waitz won her first New York City Marathon in 1978, setting a world best in 2 hours, 32 minutes, 30 seconds in her first attempt at running the distance. She went on to win eight more times, with her last victory coming in 1988.

She won the London Marathon twice, in 1983 and '86, the Stockholm Marathon in 1988 and earned five titles at the world cross-country championships from 1978-81 and 1983.
Waitz also won the gold medal in the marathon at the 1983 world championships in Helsinki, Finland. A year later, she took second behind Joan Benoit in the first women's Olympic marathon.

Waitz competed at the 1972 and 1976 Olympics in the 1,500 metres, but missed the 1980 Moscow Games because of the American-led boycott.

"Grete is in my eyes one of the greatest Norwegian athletes of all time," Norwegian Athletics Federation president Svein Arne Hansen said. "Not only through her performances in the sport, but also as a role model for women in sports."

In a Twitter posting, marathon world record-holder Paula Radcliffe remembered Waitz as "an amazing champion and more amazing person."

Retired cyclist Lance Armstrong, who overcame testicular cancer to win the Tour de France seven times, called Waitz "a good friend and an incredible athlete" on his Twitter feed.

Aanesen said a private funeral ceremony is planned for next week, according to Waitz's wishes.

Waitz is survived by her husband Jack Waitz and her two brothers, Jan and Arild.

Waitz had never run a marathon when she started the New York City race in October 1978. Her husband had talked her into trying, but after about 18 miles she regretted it.

"I was hurting. I was mad. I was angry. I told Jack: 'Never again," Waitz recalled in 2008.

She broke the world record three more times: In New York in 1979 and '80 and in London in '83.

Waitz started undergoing cancer treatment in 2005 but rarely discussed her condition in public.

"That's not my personality," she said in November 2005. "I've always been a private person. … I'll do that when I cross the finish line and win this race."

At the time she was optimistic she could conquer the disease.

"I'm crossing my fingers," she said. "I will beat it."

Like Waitz, Aanesen declined to specify which type of cancer she had.

"She didn't wish to put too much focus on herself and her disease, but hoped she could contribute in some way to help others," said Aanesen, who got to know Waitz through her work with the foundation.

"She was a fantastic and immensely successful sports practitioner and also a role model and pioneer in women's sports," Aanesen said. "She showed that women too can run longer distances than 1,000 metres."

Born in Oslo as Grete Andersen on Oct. 1, 1953, she trained and raced in her youth at Oslo's Bislett stadium, which raised a bronze statue in her honour in 1984.

Waitz received numerous other awards and honours for her achievements on and off the track.

In 2008, Norway's king bestowed upon her the prestigious Order of St. Olav for being a role model for female athletes. Last year, she received the International Olympic Committee's Women and Sport Award for Europe.

Waitz still holds the Norwegian records in the 1,500 and 3,000 metres.

April 19, 2011 http://ca.sports.yahoo.com/top/news;_ylt=ApOPlHwimjb8bxpTZ_96sfJShgM6?slug=capress-ath_obit_waitz-6607610

Boston Marathon results

2011-04-18T21:14:00.001-04:00

Some great results today from local runners at the Boston Marathon.
Congrats to all, well done!

Mud, Mud and Mud... oh and Lots of water.

2011-04-17T12:53:00.000-04:00

It was a rainy day! To say the least it was, weather statements issued by Environment Canada, warned of torrential downpours high winds, and possible flooding. What better day to go out and run 52k on trails? So myself and Chris Battaglia met at 5 (ouch) and drove to pickering to take part in the Seaton Trail Races. There were 3 events, the 29k, 52k and 50 mile races, we were doing the 52k race. Once we got there we ran into Neil The Bastard Phillips and Deb Lancia, Neil wasn't running he was just there to support Deb who was doing the 52k as training for her 100 mile race at Sulphur Springs in May. The 52k and 50 mile race both started at 7:08 and we off into the rain and windthe first leg out wasn't too bad as we were the first ont he trails although there were a few spots that were already under water and getting muddy. The river crossing was at 2.5k in and we would cross that 4 times on the out and back course, it knee deep was cooollllddddd, but it doesn't hit you until you get out of the water that s when you realise your legs are numb from the knees down. Not long after you have forgotten about the numbness as you hit the first climb, on a dry day its tough and today was far from dry. The course had a few suttle changes, one was to bypass a really nasty climb up a hill on your hands and knees section, thankful for that. Another change became apparent after passing the turnarounds from previous years! Where the hell are they taking us? At 15k we turned around! Well, by my simple calculations that would add up to 60k, unless they have somemore surprises for us.
On the trail back it was becoming apparent that the trails were getting steadily worse with the amount of traffic on them and the increase in rain fall.
When I got back to the start finish area i checked ny watch and couldn't believe it was already at 3:22, at this rate it would be an 8 hour finish!!! I changed my sopping wet gloves and put some dry ones on my now frozen fingers, put on an extra jacket and plodded on back out there. I passed Chris after crossing the river and he wasn't doing well, I wondered whether he would start the second lap. Many others questioned their ability on this day too. A lot of walking and soul searching went on over the next few k, I got to 34k and wondered if it was possible to run another 10k just to get to the turnaround. I got to about 40k and though I will just go to the next aid station and turn there and quit. As it turned out, another change was that this was the final turnaround. Yahoo! I was starving at this point and devoured 2 P&B sandwiches (and I hate Peanut butter) soem salted potato and grabbed a couple of chocolate chip cookies for the road. I felt much better nw, knowing that I didn't have as far to go (only 12k!!!). With belly with some nutrition in it now off I went. I couldn't believe how well I was feeling, stiff and sore but moving forward.
With about 7k to go things began to unravel again and walking was more and more the the only option, the odd run thrown in to make my mind feel better.
I finished in 6:47, an hour and a half slower than my last attempt here. Chris as suspected, didn't finish. Which says a lot knowing what Chris is like. We had heard that at least 20 did not finish the 52k, which was actually 54.5k. I only saw one more runner going out to complete the third loop of the 50 mile race. Many had completed only 2 loops and settled with that. The weather and the course had taken its toll today. Its a tough race on the best of days, today was brutal. I was happy to finish.

Boston Weekend

2011-04-15T17:31:00.000-04:00

It's Boston weekend again and a number of local RoadRunners are off to challenge the famous old race again. Here's a list of all the Barrie runners that are registerred and you can follow them on the Boston Marathon Website:

KevO with Bart Yasso

2011-04-12T17:52:00.000-04:00

As noted in an earlier posting Kevin O'Neill won the 5k in St.Louis on Saturday. Here is a picture of Kevin with Bart Yasso receiving his award.

Paris Marathon

2011-04-11T11:51:00.000-04:00

As mentioned below in one of the comments, Kevin Hamilton of Barrie who used to work at the Running Room, ran his first marathon this past weekend in Paris, France. Not only that he ran a very impressive 3:18. Well done Kevin.

Early results from St. Louis & Rotterdam

2011-04-10T12:32:00.003-04:00

Looks like it may have been a tough day on our RoadRunners in St. Louis. Except for Kevin running a 3:18, Ricky Mac struggled to finish at 4:51 and there is no sign of TMac making it past the first timing mat. She may be a DNF. Hope all is well guys.
Update: It seems the course was closed (due to the heat I'm guessing and Tmac didin't make the cut off).
Theo ran 4:07 in Rotterdam, looks like it was a tough day on both sides of the pond.

Early Weekend Results

2011-04-09T17:16:00.002-04:00

We have a winner!

In St.Louis today, the MArathon weekend got off to a great start for one Barrie RoadRunner. Kevin O'Neill won the 5k, yes WON! his time of 18:30 was 4 seconds faster than the second place runner. Awesome job KevO. 1st out of 1532 finishers. His better half Chris finished in 32 minutes, in the top third of the field. Well done Chris! Good luck to all in the marathon tomorrow.

Roadrunners on the move.

2011-04-07T15:12:00.004-04:00

This Weekend a few Barrie Roadrunners are off and racing in the US and Europe.
Theo Bosch is off to the Netherlands' for the "Rotterdam Marathon".This event is a big one attracting over 25,000 combined for all events, and offers one of the fastest courses to run. The streets will be lined with 900,000 cheering spectators.

http://www.abnamromarathonrotterdam.com/home

Rick and Tracy Maclean, Kevin and Chris O'neiil will be travelling not quite as far to St. Louis for the "GO St.Loius Marathon". Listed as a challenging course, St.Louis has some great sights and scenery on the route.

http://gostlouis.org/

Pictures,results, and stories to follow. Good racing to everyone!

Ontario Ultra Series Spring Warm Up

2011-04-03T13:18:00.000-04:00

It was a nice spring day and Myself, Catherine, and Bill took off to Dunedin, Ontario to take part in the Ontario Ultra Series Spring Warm up Fun Run.

The usual crowd of Ultra folks were there and we mingled at the Community centre prior to the start. Dunedin is in a valley and the only way out is up hill, an ominous sign of thing's to come. This was to be a hilly run, which should be spelt with a capital H! after the start along the main street we turned right up a 2k + hill before turning onto a unassumed snow covered road, yes still lots of snow in these parts.

Into a even snowier ravine before coming back up. More hills, and a narly, icy, snowy, deer poop covered Bruce trail section before heading back.

The second loop I took one of the alternates, longer but it avoided the nasty trail section, the other trail section became worse as the day progressed too, slipperier and muddier. Almost dangerous if you got going too fast. The wind was another factor and it was very windy at the top of some of the "mountains". In all a good day was had by all, lots to talk about after. One couple told me about their run in with a herd of deer, in which they almost got run over, and then almost stepped on a porcupine. Five to five hours of running for most on a nice sunny day was a great way to start the Ultra season.

Harry's Spring Run Off 8K - High Park, Toronto

2011-04-02T16:14:00.002-04:00

This is my season opener for races. I love this race. It's a friggin challenging run. I use to laugh at my brother in law for training in High Park. After the first year I ran it 4 years ago, I stopped laughing. I've never really come across a route that challenging. The hill at 7.6km is just killer. My god. The one at 3k feels like it goes on for about a whole kilometer. The flatest bit is 4-5k. it's a nice piece. The rolling hills from 5-6 k are rolling but rolling up. At the 6k mark I was at 33min even. I managed to do the math... 11 more minutes for 2 km. I could probably do it if the 7k hill didn't exist. But it did. I had a quick break around 7 k just to let my breathing steady itself, then off again. I had a lady in a red shirt that I was trying to stick to, but I lost her when I walked. At the 4oo meters left to go mark was the base of the hill. I ran for about 200 meters and my lungs were screaaaaming. I had to walk - it was about 100 meters then I took off again. I could hear the crowds clearly now & heard my sister yelling ... I saw my sis/bro in law and niece at the beginning and then again just before the half way mark and just my sis at the 100 meter left mark. God did I ever need that. I dropped it into 5th and burned up the rest of the hill, around the corner and over the finish line in 46:23 chip time. 23 seconds better than last year. I'm working hard at not doing to deep a post mortum on this run. Trying ... But it gives me and idea of where I am at and where I need to work harder to improve. The one thing I did keep thinking that I'm going to have to change is " how the hell do you keep this up for 42.2 k?" I'll have to change it to " I CAN keep this up for 42,2 k" It's all good. Next race for me? I'm not sure possums what's in store for me this year. There are a lot of factors right now ... I just may focus on training & just wait until August to do the Midsummer Nights Run & then a couple of fall races. We'll see. Til the next post.

Around the Bay Results

2011-03-28T12:50:00.003-04:00

On a cold a blustery day in Hamilton it looks like we had quite a few PB's from Barrie RoadRunners and all around good times had by most.

Here are the results:

Barrie Runners

Orillia Runners

Innisfil Runners

Midhurst Runners

Sorry if I missed anyone.

Around the Bay

2011-03-24T21:45:00.001-04:00

Yes its that time of year again, whether your using it t judge your training while gearing up for a spring marathon or going for your longest race to date, the Around the Bay Road race 30k is a favourite for many runners in Southern Ontario. It is also a regular stop for many Barrie RoadRunners and this year is no different as a bus load and then some all head down to race this weekend. Good luck to all!

Around the Bay

2011-03-22T18:10:00.002-04:00

March 27th 2011 - Hamilton On

Hamilton's Around the Bay is the continent's oldest road race, it's older than Boston and it's OURS!! Well Canadian, and once again Barrie is sending a bus load of runners and supports on Sunday morning to participate in race.

If you don't have a spot - ask around someone might be looking to sell theirs, also there are charity spots available for all of the events. Why not try to some fundraising? It's going to a great cause.

Good luck to all the Barrie Runners! Keep an eye out for results Sunday afternoon.

Little Rock Marathon

2011-03-20T19:29:00.006-04:00

I heard of the Little Rock Marathon a few years ago and finaly after seeing the giant medals at an expo, we decided to run this race. That was back in Nov 2010. Jim Tuttle thought it was a good one as well, and then Bill Lovett and Cathrine "Reno" Harding comitted to, it was set to be a good March getaway. We flew out on the Friday before the race and came back on the Monday after. Its always nice to enjoy the after race celebrations without rushing back home. We all stayed at the Host hotel, The Peabody, it was a nice place with the famous Peabody Ducks that actually stay in the lobby fountain during the day. The expo was well set up and organized, nice shirt, lots of vendors and race merchandise.The race was well done to with Bart Yasso on the mic at the start, and remember this is Arkansas, southern state, warm weather which meant shorts. The course was good, tough in spots like a big hill at 14 miles and then a couple more including a bit of a test at mile 25 for me to keep my pace going. Fortunately I have been training hard thanks to the Fast Old Guys and I had a great race and a PB. We all enjoyed Little Rocks fan support and of course the giant medal.

Boxing Day Run 2010 - A race to

2011-03-14T08:42:00.002-04:00

Race: Boxing Day Run
Where : Hamilton
When: December 26th 2010 - ( Boxing Day)
Distance in reality: 10 Miles
Distance in my mind: 50 Miles
Companions: Theo Bosch & Oliver Owens

Okay so there is nothing better than a run the morning after Christmas. Seriously... well that's how Theo sold it to me at any rate.
Being plagued by a chronic injury for the last year, I had scaled back my races significantly. I figured hey why not, you've managed a few good runs, give it a whirl and Theo has a way with words... " You racing? Day of sign up" Who could say no to an invite like that?

With my daughter gone for the Holiday Season, I thought why the heck not, gets me out and about. Fine... so in the Bosch-mobile I clammered. Around the bend and down the lane to Olivers house & then our little trio was complete & off we trekked.
Destination: the YMCA on James St Hamilton.
We got there with time to spare - registration didn't open until 10am. So we sat in the Y's little "cafe" and had a nice cuppa.
And guess who we run into none other than Chris Battaglia.
Now there's a surprise. LOL.

At 10am on the dot I was lead to the Gymnasium and duly handed over my $60.00 / registration form and in return I got a my bib and nifty Snowman gloves. It was the 90th running of the Boxing Day Run & what celebrations there were. Okay it was rather low key, but the clothing that you could buy was pretty darn great. However; since I have more closet space dedicated to running gear than civvies I thought it best to resist the temptation adding to my running gear.
The Expos was ... erhm... one table.. no wait... two. One with running stuff the other with running information.
I'm thinking they may want to expand on the expos just a tad.
At any rate - around 11:30 we headed off to the starting line on John Street where we were greeted by a very blustery wind. bbbrrrrr... so Oliver and I huddled up by the only source of heat - a running car. LOL. We got our picture taken for the Hamilton Spectator. Poor Theo ... bio break means missing out on celebraty.
The horn went and so did we all 1096 of us.
And once again I went like ... sno.. erhmm to fast. First km in 5:03, okay seriously, it's nice to know that my body can do it, but I have 9.4 miles left. Second km 5:15 and by the third km I figured it was time to walk since I hadn't run into an aid station yet. This, thought I, would slow me down for sure...
And as we turned into the marina's THERE was the aid station.. bugger... oh well. Keep going, as we exited the marina we hit the waterfront trail where I had done the Slainte Grey Cup 8k the year before & placed 3rd in my age group. I LOVE this part of the race & I was burning up the trail. I hit the 5 mile split at 47:52. PB LOOK OUT HERE I COME. My best time in a 10 miler was 2009 Acura 10 miler with a 1:39 time. I was on my way ... yahhoo.
Then as I started mile 6 ... I could feel the incline start & with that my leg pain increase - see I can ignore it very well on a flat course, but once the hills start, not so much.
We were running the edge of Chedoke Golf Course. Ack... this was not good.
Mile 7 - was the beginning of a mile climb up to the Club House & it was the begining of the end for me. My leg was not about to co-operate with me at all & let me know that there was NO WAY I was going to make a PB in fact, I was hard pressed to come close to my Angus Glen 10 miler time.
I was heartbroken.
I walked up the hill.
Then we hit a gravel rail trail - it was flat - but even that wouldn't help.
I walked some more.
Mile 9 started with a lovely down hill, so I trotted down hill... for about 500 meters. I was beside myself - Theo & Oliver were hopefully in the Y, changed and keeping warm. I tried as hard as I could not to look at my Garmin.
As I turned on to Jackson Street and headed towards the finish I figured I better run as best as I can in case Theo & Oliver were out, plus the finishing picture needs to be done running. I heard Theo .. then saw him.. It egged me on to at least keep running. Theo joined me for a hundred meters or so dangling the bling in front of me, as if that would help. I just didn't want to cry in front of the guys. I have an image to up hold. Sorta... okay not really but one must keep a modicum of ones pride intact.

So I crossed the finish line in 1:51:00
Chris Battaglia
Theo Bosch 1:31:13
Oliver Owens 1:11:52

All injuries aside - I think this is something I would do again. I did enjoy it. Hamilton is a great race town.

It Was a Rainy Day

2011-03-11T15:57:00.005-05:00

Yes it was a very rainy day and certainly not hot in Cleveland for the Green Jewel 50k on Saturday March 5th. The previous week had seen some serious flooding in the Clevelnad area and we were a little concerned about the race actually being run. But apperently things had got a little better and the flood waters had receded, unfortunately a new wave of nasty weather was threatening to make the waters rise again. Theo Bosch and myself drove down on friday morning not knowing what to expect and by the time we got to Ohio the rain had started, at least the temperature wasn't too bad (up to 9C). We settled in to our hotel room and went for dinner and drove out to see where to catch the bus in the morning. Looks like a very nice area, Brecksville (where the finish is)is a beautiful small town and is surrounded by more of the the same. I think there's a bit of money in these parts. After finding the finsih/bus stop area we drove to see "the hill" but turned around before we got there, thinking that maybe it would be better not to see it before the race.
The next morning we were up at 4:30 and out the door by shortly after 5 to be at the bus pick up area before 5:30. To our surprise a nice comfy coach showed up to pick us up. After picking up our race bibs we got on the bus and waited for everyone else before setting off for Rocky River For the start. The course runs around the outskirts of Cleveland from Rocky River in the west to the south along the Rocky River on mainly paved bike paths (except for a 8 kilometre stretch of road) to Brecksville and the Oak Grve Picnic area.
The rain never let up much and we started on time at 7 am. The early going seemed rather easy as we kept up a nice sub 5 min/km pace. There were lots of puddles to greet us and in some places we had no option but to wade through ankle deep ice cold water. Evidence of the prevu=ious weeks floods were everywhere, with mud on the path and debris in the woods. Regardless it was a very nice looking area and would have been even better under better conditions. We maintained our pace and kept to our plan of walking through the aid stations and when we neeeded a gel (about every hour). After passing the half way mark things started to seize up a little for me, as was expected, but i kept on not wanting Theo to be disappointed in his first 50K, he may need some help in the later stages. I might wnat to point ut that the course is almost entirely a gradual uphill climb, at least unitl about 35k when the "real" hills start at this point both of us were hurting and we agreed that walking the hills would be good stratgey.
We had been slowing down at this point and it was a matter of just getting it done now. We managed to get our self through the hills and got our selves to the last major road crossing at Brecksville Rd. 3k from the end. It was down hill from here, but we weren't ready for downhills, our quads were in pain. We soldiered on and thankfully finished in a time of 4:48:50, a PB for Theo :).

Overall a great small event, only 87 finishers. Tough course which would have been great on a nice day. Heavy rain and strong head winds didn't deter us though. Thanks to Joe Jurczyk, the race director.

Races, Races, Races

2011-02-27T19:25:00.003-05:00

Looks like race season is getting under way finally, with numerous events over the next little while. This Sunday was the Peterborough and Grimsby half Marathons, while coming up next weekend there is the Chilly Half in Burlington and a couple brave souls are travelling to the Cleveland area to take part in the Green Jewel 50k.
Lastly a small contingent of RoadRunners are off to Little Rock, Arkansas in search of a huge medal at the Little Rock Marathon this weekend coming.

Good luck to all.

Peterborough Half Marathon Results

2011-02-27T17:17:00.004-05:00

Sunday February 27th was the Peterborough Half Marathon with a number of RoadRunners taking part. Congrats to all:

Mary Mitchell - 1:36:05 1st in her age group
Jamie Nielson - 1:38:07
Rick MacLean - 1:41:32 PBJim Tuttle - 1:49:45
Tracy MacLean - 2:27:56

New Race Series in the Orillia area

2011-02-27T17:12:00.001-05:00

The CANI Running SeriesLearn your limits and go beyond with the CANI road race series. By making a commitment to Constant and Never-Ending Improvement, runners can harness the power of setting and achieving goals, and reach new personal bests. For specific race details, including dates, maps and costs, please click on individual races below.

CANI Race 1 - Sunday June 5th, 2011
The CANI series begins with a 5km and 10km event that will get those legs moving after a long winter! Starting at the beautiful Centennial Park in Orillia, the CR1 takes runners along the shoreline of Couchiching Lake, around Wilson Wetland and returns to the park along the paved Gordon Lightfoot Recreation Trail. This course is flat, fast and a joy to run.
CANI Race 2 -Sunday August 7th, 2011Held nine weeks after the CR1, thereby giving runners the training time to improve in time and/or distance, the CR2 courses are also flat, fast and provide another opportunity to achieve a personal best. The CR2 starts at Kitchener Park in Orillia and runs along the shoreline of Lake Simcoe, winding its way through Victoria Point and along beautiful Forest Ave.
CANI Race 3 -Sunday October 16th, 2011Ten whole weeks of training later, run the CR3, The Bontita Glen ½ Marathon and 10km. Go further or faster than you've gone before! The CR3 offers a 10km as well as a half-marathon distance to provide an extra challenge to runners at the end of a great training season. It will begin at Bonita Glen on the 11th line of OroMedonte, run up the 11th line to the Ridge Road, down Lakeshore Rd E. to Eight Mile Point and return along the same route. This course takes you down beautiful tree lined roads and along the shores of Lake Simcoe offering you some of the best views of the township. It's not to be missed!

Athletes for Athletes

2011-01-19T21:25:00.001-05:00

Barrie’s running community, spearheaded by members of the Barrie Road Runners, have shown their support for local Special Olympics programs with a gracious donation. SOO-Barrie was presented with three GPS units: one that was purchased, and two that were passed along. These tools will help the snowshoeing and nordic ski programs in their weekly training sessions, showing athletes about distance and pace and helping coaches design training plans. Accepting the units from runner Rick MacLean (left) are snowshoe athlete Brian Waring and nordic coach Hellaina Rothenburg.
Such support is important for the success of these grassroots programs. Indeed, Brian and Hellaina are proudly wearing their brand new Team Region 6 uniforms. Barrie is sending five snowshoers, six alpine skiers, and eight nordic skiers to Thunder Bay for this weekend’s Provincial Winter Games. The athletes will be accompanied by six coaches.
Thank you Barrie Road Runners!

Or maybe this is more your style

2011-01-14T16:26:00.002-05:00

The Hardrock Endurance Run

New Year, time to pick a few races out.

2011-01-03T18:44:00.003-05:00

Happy New Year to all.
With a new year comes a new season of races. There are plenty to choose from close and far away.
Its interesting how people choose a race, some go for close ones, some for swag, some for scenery,some try to do different countries and states. The one question that always comes up is...Elevation! I thought I would give a comparison of some of the big time racecourse elevation profiles, just incase you want to go to Chicago, or even.....Dubai.
Whatever venue you decide, local or far away enjoy the year of races to come.

Thunder Road Marathon

2010-12-21T18:54:00.006-05:00

There was quite a group of Barrie RoadRunner that travelled to Charlotte NC to take part in the Thunder Road Marathon on Dec 11.
Charlotte is a beautiful city with lots to see like the Nascar Hall of Fame and lots of nightlife, and is very clean and friendly.The group, well there was Dave Hope,Catherine Harding,Bill Lovett, and Keith Lascelles running the half, while Jim Tuttle, Erin Wilson-Barrie,Lisa Thurlow, Tracy MacLean, Oliver Owens, Roger Ison, and myself running the Full. The course was somewhat hilly from start to finish, including a bit of an uphill finish. The course was incredibly scenic with nice homes and very friendly course support. It was a cold start but great conditions for the event, no rain and how often do you get to wear shorts in December!
The medals were great, a couple of free beers as well at the finish.Everyone had a good race including Lisa and myself who had PB's
Congrats to all, it was a fun weekend despite some travel delays due to weather getting home!

Boston Tea Party, April 17th 2011

2010-12-08T21:20:00.000-05:00

I received this messsage from a David Hiddleston. Those of you going to Boston in April please read on;

Hi Bill, hopefully I have the correct person but I saw your name on the Boston Marathon 2011 entrants list. Just wanted to make you aware of an event that might interest you - it's a brunch the day before the race aimed at Canadian runners; www.bostonteaparty.ca.
Thanks

David

Here is an excerpt from the website:
To register click the tab at the top of this page where you can either enter online or by mail. Note - this price includes online processing fees. We are having three sittings of 9am, 10am and 11am so decide quick which suits your schedule and register before that slot fills up. Any questions? Please don't hesitate to contact me, David at teamcanadabrunch@gmail.com

Thunder Road Marathon NC

2010-12-05T11:58:00.004-05:00

This Saturday a number of Barrie Roadrunners are heading to Charlotte North Carolina for the Thunder Road Marathon. It looks to be a great event with some of us doing the Full and others the Half.There is plenty of entertainment to look forward to on the course from cheer groups from schools,bands, and a juggler.
Good luck and a great race to all.

Whitby Waterfront Races Nov 21/10

2010-11-21T20:33:00.003-05:00

The Whitby Waterfront Races were held today and a number of Barrie Roadrunners participated in one or more of these events. Yes thats right,one or more as Chris Battaglia ran the 5K, the 10K, and the 10 miler. Not a bad day at all for Chris who basically did 31K of race pace and was 2nd in his age group for the 5K. The day was one windy cold one with a head wind that made you forget all about those 32 degree summer days as we ran along the shores of Lake Ontario out and back. Oliver Owens, Tracy, and myself ran the the 10 miler and all had a good race with Oliver 1:15, Tracy getting a 1:47 and 2 minute PB, I also had a PB of 3 minutes at 1:16. It was a good event with a long sleeve tech shirt (3 for some right Chris) medal, and hot soup served out of the Ontario Shores Center which is an amazing facility.

Marshall University Marathon WV

2010-11-09T15:47:00.009-05:00

11 hours by car is how long it takes to get to Huntington West Virginia.
Kevo, Theo, and myself headed for this Sunday marathon on the Friday before with some snow through the Ohio Valley but descent weather for most of the drive.This event was well done with a full zip fleece top(if you registered early enough) or a long sleeve tech shirt, free pasta dinner,and a nice medal. Out on the course we figured we were the only Canadians but I ran with a guy from Toronto, and then Andrea(see pic) joined in the conversation and she was from London. Andrea runs out of Runners Choice in London and as we talked about races,she was telling me this Sunday race was the 2nd of her back to back marathon. The course was fast and looped a couple times through Ritter Park and along the Ohio River as well twice. I started to get tired around mile 22 but kept going with quick stops at water stations and wanted to have a strong finish. The finish is right into Marshall Stadium were you can take a football and run the 100 yds to to the goal line finsh, it was great.
I finished in 3:54. Kevo had strong run as usual and his 2:56 got him 2nd in his age group and Theo PB'D at 3:28.
Oh and the stuffed Giraffe....thats from Tracy's car and we wanted to make sure it got around, and it did.

4 Ways to Combat Off Season Blues

2010-11-04T13:41:00.000-04:00

Well as I was trolling through Yahoo Canada I came across this little article that caught my eye. Now it's aimed towards triathletes *shudders* but we won't hold that against them; there's no accounting for taste.

Who knows it might help stave off the winter blues for those runners that are currently injured or sidelined for other reasons.

Enjoy.

And hug a tri-guy no one else will. *tee hee hee hee*

http://www.active.com/triathlon/Articles/4-Ways-to-Combat-Offseason-Blues.htm?cmp=282&memberid=100190871&lyrisid=21104504

Munich Marathon

2010-10-31T16:40:00.011-04:00

After completing the Lochness Marathon in Inverness Scotland the week before (Oct 3rd, see write below). The Macleaniacs (Rick and Tracy)and the Lascelles (Keith and Joan) travelled on to Munich, Germany to take part in the Munich Marathon (Joan would take part in the 10k, her first running). The trip would take different paths, but once we met up in Newcastle, we took a ferry to Amsterdam from North Shields. Then flew to Munich.
Munich is a beautiful city and the marathon would hilight its beauty. The expo was larger than we expected and we picked up the required "bargains". Munich wasn't cheap though, the race as well, on top of your registration you have to purchase or actually rent your chip for 6 Euros and if you want a race shirt you have to prepurchase that too. But since we probably wouldn't be able to do this again...
T-shirts and "bargains" in hand we headed back to the hotel room and another day of site seeing before race day.

There are 9,000 runners in the marathon so this is a big event, but staging the start and finish in the Olympic park is great location with lots of room. The finish for all events is in the Olympic stadium (1972 Olympics) on the track, and a amazing stadium it is. Not dated at all.

Race morning we took the Metro to what was supposed to be the closest stop to the Olympic part (not sure about that, as we walked along way to get there).
But get there we did and walked to the stadium to the bag drop areas, which were very well organized (well they are germans!). Off to the start area we went, and by this time it was getting very crowded. Rick and myself had decided that we might as well start in the second coral as we weren't in any hurry and we knew this may be a struggle after last weeks race. Remember beer is plentiful in Munich! We said our goodbyes to Joan whose race would start about 40 minutes after ours at the same spot.

At 10 minutes after 10 on the 10th of the 10th month in 2010 the second coral started, and we were off. It was a slow start as it was crowded and again we weren't in a hurry. Tracy was in front of us for a while. At about 4k in we went by a beer station (a little early for us, but we took note of the location because we knew we'd be coming back this way). Shortly after we turned onto the Ludwig Strasse,
a wide boulevardthat we would a couple of times. Majestic buildings and architecture to put north american races to shame. At about 8k in we entered the English Garten, a very large park, which we ran through for about 5k or more before exiting into a very nice residential area. The amzing scenery contiued on through out the race. My injuries started to wear on me and by 19k or so I knew this was going to be a tough go, but Rick said he wasn't at his best either and was willing to just plod along or walk or what ever was required. And so it went on like this for many k's. Back onto the Ludwig Strasse at about 30k and off again to follow some narrower roads to more sites.
Back to the Ludwig Strasse at 36k, counting down the k's to the finish and then there was the beer stand again. I said to Rick to pcik up 2 cups each as we deserved them. There was lots there! And they were big cups, but once we tried it we tossed them just as quick, yukkkk! That was the worst beer we'd ever tried. That last couple of k were extremely difficult, but only because of our condition. I was looking forward to finishing on the track where I watched my running hero's compete in the 72 Olympics (Viren, Foster...). We took a last walk break just before entering the stadium, through a tunnel we ran with strobe lights, dry ice fog and music blaring into the stadium (what a rush). We ran the fastest we had ran all day around that soft track, it felt good finally.
Rick and I finished in about 4:23 and looked for the beer tent, found it and would you believe its alcohol free beer, WTF! Oh well we drank it anyway, Rick waited for Tracy while went ot look for Joan. Joan had completed her 10k in a 1:00 PB, woohoo! and thought that she could hav edone much better, but ran cautiously for the first half. Tracy would finish in 5:44 in another great effort.

An awesome experience, in a big city marathon in part of the world I'd love to come back to. Definitly recomended.

Niagara Marathon 9th Place

2010-10-31T16:31:00.002-04:00

An amazing result last week at the Niagara Marathon as our own Darren Collins placed 9th overall in 2:49. To place that high in any marathon is remarkable to place in a marathon as big as Niagara is extremely remarkable. Congratulations on a great race Darren, and judging by your remarks on facebook it was not easy. Lots of other RoadRunners took part in both the Marathon and half Marathon and a good job by all. to see the results go to Sportstats.

Slainte 10K Race Hamilton

2010-10-31T12:34:00.002-04:00

Congratulations to Angie Tuttle,Liz Clubine,and Jenny Allan who raced the
Slainte 10K in Hamilton Oct 30th.
Liz and Jenny finished in 1:03 which I believe is a PB for Liz, and Angie
finished 1st in her age group at 58:39.
Way to go girls, well done.

Steamtown Marathon

2010-10-25T14:08:00.006-04:00

Well since about February I was trying to figure out what I would do to celebrate 10/10/10 and I couldn't think of a better way then to run a marathon, but where?
So after some careful consideration & many questions to my Marathoning Brother in Law I decided on Steamtown Marathon in Scranton PA.

I managed to lasso Cindy Marcelli into going with me on this adventure. Poor Cindy - hang a marathon in front of her and she'll sign up. She has no self control. ahahah.

Jim Cummings is the Asst Race Director and would send out his monthly updates & I swear I have never laughed so much as I did to his newletters, so much so I would have to respond in like. Which he felt the need to respond back. Ohhh the fun we had emailing each other about killer bunnies, rickety old bridges, peeing on wood piles, All sport being Dutch for Can't get another type of drink. I had to take slight offense to the mis-use of Dutch. Everyone knows that's not what Allsport means. ssshheesh.

Cindy & I started our adventure around noon on Friday afternoon, we managed to get stuck in every bit of traffic misadventure that could have possibly taken place on a sunny Friday afternoon. FINALLY at the boarder around 4pm we declared our citizenship and our intent to run in Scranton PA. to which our border guard said " ahhh Dunder Mifflin, say hi to Michael Scott" to which I replied " Who?" He could tell I was a bright spark, so he waved us through. Quickly. Obviously we were not a threat to the security of the United States of America.

As I drove the Tribute down the interstate and Cindy and I were chatting away I looked to my left & what to my wondering eyes should appear but an OUTLET MALL. They had an Adidas store, Under Armour, Guess, Coach, Charlotte Russe, LINDT... *sighs* ohhh it was heaven. So we walked out of the shops four hours later ladened with the odd bag or two. We arrived at our hotel in Clarks Summit some twelve hours after we started our Journey (which should have taken only 6 hours). It was six miles from the start line from the bus pick up in Scranton but it was a wonderful little hotel that served a breakfast from 6-10am THEY HAD A WAFFLE MAKER... Cindy was not leaving this hotel. So after some worry that they, the hotel, couldn't find our reservation ( many calls back and forth to the hotel on our journey) We camped down in our own beds in a nice quiet room outside of the elevators.

We ate our waffles the next morning and headed to Scranton to find the Expo & Jim Cummings, the very funny Asst Race director. And there he was, I could tell immediately - upon introductions we laughed and laughed at each other, but I can honestly say I rhoroughly enjoyed reading his updates and looked forward to the next one. I mean who reads updates right? Well with Jim's I can guarentee most runners did.

The expo was held in the new state of the art high school - which had me a bit worried & yes when Cindy & I got there, it was as I thought, rather small. However; all your runners' needs were met. They had shoes, clothing, nutrition & accessories of all types for sale. The Steamtown line of tech wear was selling like hot cakes. I picked up a rather nifty tech T-shirt myself. I would have made one suggestion, they could have really played up the 10/10/10 date a bit more. I mean it is a BIG DEAL. It's never going to happen again for a thousand years. Whoop it up fellas. Work it Divas. Alas not so much. However; they are really nifty regardless.

We headed for lunch there after; more by accident then on purpose. I sorta got lost and we ended up on Washington Street Plaza so we sat at Alfredos and had our pre carbo lunch. Then found more shops to check out. My goodness I can't get over the bargains in the States. Woohoo.

Then back to the hotel to relax at the Starbucks we had to walk 2 km to. ahah. Then head over to Rite Aid for more retail therapy and then over to Charlies for dinner. Yummy... food. hmmm Carb load food.

Back to the hotel again - do some race prep. Pin bibs to our shirts ( the bibs had the timing chip attached to it in some fancy schmancy way) so no more throwing your right foot over the pads to get a better time. Now it's bellys' first.

The weather was going to be 32 degrees in the morning and a high of 66 degrees by afternoon.
And with the injuries and lack of training I had - I was sure I was going to enjoy the 66 degrees for quite some time.

We drove down to Scranton & hopped the bus for our Start in Forest Hill, PA. We hung around the gym for a while until the start was minutes away, I managed to grab a couple of unused sports socks to put over my hands/arms for the first few miles of the run as it was cold ( apparently 32 degrees F is 0 celcius. Who knew) That's chilly. The start of the race was not a starters pistol - nope it was a fully functional canon. There was no mistaking this start.

The first mile was marked by an uphill, then followed directly by a down hill then an other uphill and, you guessed it, down hill.

Cindy & I kept our pace to about 6-6:30 pace and managed nicely for a long time. I felt really good but knew that at some point this would not be the case & I had better enjoy this moment. We managed to pick up a hanger on by the name of Hank. Hank lived 38 miles from Scranton and hadn't trained "really" for the marathon, albiet his second year running it. He regaled us of stories about how his wife was the runner and he just "took it up" and beat her at the Disney Marathon a few years prior. He would sprint off to go pee then sprint to catch up with us. Not at all annoying. Then make calls in his cell phone at the 10 mile mark. Well at that point I needed to be shot of him. Nothing personal Hank - but your sprinting and talking while I'm struggling to not throw up from the pain in my leg is making me even more sick to my stomach.

Oh yeah did I mention from about the 3 mile mark my leg was aching like a son of .... Yeah so Hank had to go.

Cindy & I both dove in to the nearest port o potties and when we emerged a minute later Hank was gone. phew.

I popped a couple of tylenol at this point and prayed that they would work sooner than later. At the half way mark I had a feeling that it could be a long race. For me at any rate. Really it was okay because the support through out the course is beyond belief. Everyone is out and cheering, they had their own water stations & cheering sections. It was unbelieveable. WOW. WELL DONE EVERYONE!!!

We ran across a couple of runners around the mid way point & she was crying her eyes out. Her husband running with her, trying to console her. Cindy & I were as well. She was just overwrought with emotions. I said not to worry I would be having my little breakdown by mile 15. And sure enough.... as we entered the trails I told Cindy to go on ahead & have her own race. I wasn't going to be long for this world. I mean the most I had done was Aug 22nd running 30 K at the Midsummer nights run. Then lots of swimming and spending a couple hours at a time on my elliptical. All really great cross training, but it doesn't prepare your body completely. So I had my little cry as I saw Cindy for the last time. And continued on - running with a lot more walking.
Then by mile 17 it became just walking.

Man is walking hard.

Really hard.

I tried to maintain a 9 min / km pace. In some instances it was more than easy enough. Other moments when I just felt like I couldn't walk another step it was the hardest pace to maintain. At 21 miles I had a brownie. It was the best brownie EVER. And I managed to pass a few people as well, so I started to feel a bit better about myself & my abilities. Then when I got passed by Poopypants I about lost it. This fellow ran like well... his name says it all. There was no way I was going to come in behind a Poopypants. NO WAY. So I started my own personal race, I really started to dislike him. Again no reason, it's just me folks, you know me by now. I'm slightly competitive at times.

When the 5 hour mark of the race hit - all I could think about is with any luck Cindy managed to finish yet and how much longer would it take me. I was having a few problems doing the conversion from miles into kilometres but figured I'd be done at 5:30 which would have worked if the miles were actually kilometres. ACK. Oh well. At mile 23 you enter into Scranton itself - through the friendly neighbhoods. They had sprinklers going, water tables, a huge street party the whole way through. That really lifted my spirits. I felt a bit of a spring in my step and I actually ran a bit here and there. Hurt, but I still ran. And there were some pretty significant up hillls happening as well, and well at that time of the race everything felt like Kilimanjaro.

I started to round the corner nearing the 25 mile mark I was greeted by a very friendly gentleman saying and I quote. " You may not have qualified for Boston but you qualify for a beer" and pointed me in the direction of the beer table some 300 metres down the road. I cried every step of those 300 metres. Thanks buddy cuz I didn't feel horrible enough. Sometimes it's just better to say nothing at all. You know?

I said no to the beer table and continued on to the next mile marker. I could hear someone behind me & thought I can NOT be passed by anyone else - so I started a conversation with the fellow. He was injured as well. started walking around the 16 mile mark, his hamstring was giving him grief. So we chatted away keeping each other company & me keeping an eye on his pace. I could hear my name, I thought I could hear my name. It was Cindy about 500 metres from the finish cheering me on. As soon as I could see her I told my walking buddy to try some running and we'd run it in. He was a no go. So off I went. As I run up Home Stretch Hill they were taking the sign for it down. Rather sad...

I could see the clock and it was edging near and nearer to 6 hours I sprinted as best as I could and made it in at 5:56. Not my best showing at all - but I made it.

I collected my medal and my pieces of pizza, the pizza was bigger than the medal. Now you all know I'm a bling ho ... so I thought the bling for 10/10/10 would be something awesome. However; the shirts at the Expo should have been a warning to me about the medal. It is something underwhelming to say the least. I'm not being ungrateful - honest. But 10/10/10 they could have done some much more.

I would highly recommend this race to everyone - it's a top 10 race if you want to do a BQ time.

It's extremely well organized & the support along the course is outstanding. This is definitely on my list of races to run again when I'm at 100%.

So until the next race... or adventure.... take care.

Lochness Marathon

2010-10-24T15:16:00.013-04:00

Inverness, Scotland is the where the Lochness Marathon ends and wear we gathered ourselves on Sunday October 3rd to board the busses to the start line. Inverness is a beautiful town/city in the north east of Scotland at the north east end of Lochness. We had ventured here after talking about the possiblity of doing this race for a couple of years. Roger and his wife Esther and myself and my wife Joan had flown to London on the Friday before and then Saturday morning flew to Inverness.
The MacLeaniacs (Rick and Tracy) didn't have it quite as easy. Due to Tracy's work schedule they had to fly to London and arrive Saturday morning and then not arrive in Inverness till late Saturday night. We had picked up the race kits and they didn't miss much at the "expo".
We got up early to walk the 2k to the busses taking pictures of nessis on the way.
We (Rick, tracy, Roger and Keith) boarded the busses and waited and by 8 am the busses left for the long journey to... Just where were we going anyway? A stunning bus ride with beautiful views got us to the start line, actually about 1k away or more, in the middle of the scottish highlands with nary a building to be seen anywhere. Something has to be said about the logistics of this race and the great job in putting this together. Bussing 3000 marathoners to a hill in the middle of nowhere, on a road that barely fits a bus is no mean feet. We got off the busses in the cold, wet and windy conditions and there was a beeline for the heather on the hills and the few trees around to relieve ones selves. Followed by a long walk to the baggage drop off trucks and then the port-a-potties, in the middle of a field. Once that was taken care of we realized that it was not long to the start, so we made our way chasing after Roger who seemed more anxious than the rest of us to get near the start. Before we could say.. the gun went off and we were on our way. The first few miles were all down hill (more or less) and with the narrow road and masses of runners it was not possible to do the 10 and 1's we had planned on doing. Eventually at about 2 miles we figured we could walk and did. Roger suggested that 2 miles and 1 minute walks may work better so that's the way we decided to approach it. At 5 miles the first significant hill. . It was shortly after this that Rick dropped off the pace as we were going quicker than anticipated. Considering the journey to get here, it is surprising that any of us were running as well as we did, especially considering the injury problems Roger and myself had endured.
The views continued to be amazing and the light rain continued to fall, perfect conditions. My own injury issues were starting to slow me down a bit and at about 13 miles I told Roger to just go and not worry about me. He gradually pulled away. The 2 miles and 1's went off the rails for me at 15 miles as I took an extended walk break and just as I started to run again I hear Rick behind me. We ran (well almost ran) the rest of the race together. At 18 miles after going through the town of Dores to some unexpectedly racaus support from the town folks, we looked behind and there was Lochness behind us with a panoramic view and the hills on either side (photo op, also known as an excuse for a break).
Follwing this we turned to face the largest hill on the course about 2 miles long (at least it seemded like it). We'd get to the first curve on the hill and think it was almost done and see it go on forever!
We walked the entire hill, all 3, 4 or was it 5 miles? The race was becoming a struggle, but we made the most of it and just enjoyed talking to everyone. We had a laugh at everyone thinking both Rick and myself were called Barrie (hey look its the Barrie's, they would say). When we got to Inverness there was more crowd support and had to run to a bridge to cross the Ness river before doubling back to the finish line. Rick and myself finished in 4 hours and 12 minutes, Roger struggled the last few miles and finihsed in 3:58, not bad for someone who had been told not to even walk a few weeks before.
We then waited for Tracy, as we did so we listened to the announcer talking about the feats of some of the racers, and although admirable they would pale by comparison to what Tracy and Rick had accomplished over the past month or so. So we approached the announcer and let him know, so as Tracy finished he announced that she had completed 5 marathons and one half over the past 5 weeks.
Lochness was a great event in a beautiful location, a challenging course, but recommnded by all of us. Esther and Joan not to be out done, completed the 10k walk and enjoyed being apart of the event too, finishing in 1:25.

CIBC Run for the Cure Oct 3 2010

2010-10-11T22:26:00.002-04:00

So this is the third year I've done the CIBC Run for the Cure in support of the CBCF with my work colleagues in Downtown Toronto.
This year they moved the venue from Nathan Phillips Square to the U of T campus. Not a bad spot really, however; being unfamiliar with the locale, our team didn't meet up ahead of time for a pre run/walk WHOOOAAAA BUNDY!

However; I headed from Barrie to Yorkdale Mall to catch the Red Rocket to Queen's Park. I know this well from going to Toronto General often for my check ups, but U of T - I was a little shaky on, however; as the sea of pink clad runners emerged from the underground, we were greeted by numerous University student Volunteers that took us to our run destination which started and finished at King's College Circle.
We ran along University, Bay, Bloor, Queen St W ... I ran right by the ROM and didn't even realize it. How could you miss that? I guess I was concentrating on not falling apart.

See I haven't run since the Midsummer Night's Run way back in August, mind you I have been using my eliptical and swimming heavy workouts to keep the cardio up and the legs in motion.

So as I lined up for the start, I kept thinking - okay your boss isn't here running with you, you have nothing to prove. RUN SMART - don't injure yourself.
The starters pistol went and off I trotted. I looked down at may Garmin - 1 km in 5:03 YIKES... that is SO not good! That's including running around folks, dodging slower participants (although they separated the walkers & runners) & as I got to 2k I checked again & my pace was a blistering 4:48 WHAAAAT? No NO NO NO!!!!!
By the time I hit 3 k my leg was protesting severely. This was NOT what I had decided to run after my daughter broke the news to me that she couldn't walk the run with me.
So the only way to stop running is to STOP RUNNING - so I did. I walked about a minute & let my calf muscle relax a bit.

I started off again and stayed at a steady 6 min / km pace & my calf was very pleased with that. So I maintained that with the strict vigilance of a Nun at a co-ed school. I also allowed myself to walk a number of times more to that end I finished in 29 minutes.

Once again the CBCF put together a wonderful post & pre race "expos". Our friends Revlon were there, once again, selling all sorts of glosses, mascaras, etc. at such bargain basement prices that Honest Ed would be proud. Purina Cat Chow was represented. CIBC had their tent there with all the CBCF merchandise on hand to purchase.
The food tent was totally OUT OF THIS WORLD. Probably the best food of any "small distance only" race I've been too.
Mind you the distance may be small but the size of the participants is not! Toronto has thousands upon thousands of participants. There were runners and walkers as far as the eye could see, in fact it was remincient of Sporting Life 10K. It was outstanding to be part of that.

And a huge big ENORMOUS thank you to all the kind and generous folks that sponsored me again this year! With out your support ... well... many tata's would be in jeopardy.

Thanks CBFC for hosting another spectacular event!

Thank YOU for giving your hard earned dollars to this worthy cause.

USAF Marathon & Rochester Marathon

2010-09-21T16:50:00.003-04:00

Yes, its a 2 marathon report, both good ones.
Rochester Marathon was Sept 12 in Rochester NY. Tracy, Brendan Kavanaugh, Jim Tuttle, and myself were off to stay over Saturday night for the Sunday race. Small expo, cotton longsleeve shirt(nice) and a well organized event made this a definate one to consider as its not that far to drive.The course starts on a small bridge downtown, heads downhill for miles through some nice areas before turning onto bike trail for about 16 miles along the Erie Canal and Genesee River.The course is flatter than the profile on the website, and quite fast. Brendan was first in his age group, and we all had a great race.

The USAF Marathon takes place in Dayton Ohio. It starts and finishes on Wright Patterson Airforce base. Tracy, Oliver Owens, and myself all drove down. Cynthia Osborne and Brian were also there. The course is hilly and was hot with temps in the low 80's, but you soon forget all that when you expierience a B52 Bomber low fly over a few times at the start, and then a couple of F16' fighter jets. The patriotism is everywhere and you feel honoured to be able to run in some of the high security areas on the base. The finish line corrals you to an awaiting Senior Airforce Officer, one of many waiting, who presents your medal, congratulates you and shakes your hand.It is great, and the medal is one of the best ever. We all had a good, but tough at times run from the hot weather. I highly recommend this race and we plan on going back in 2011.

Run Club Shopping evening at Mountain Equipment Co-Op, Toronto

2010-09-20T13:11:00.000-04:00

Can you send info on the following event to fellow runners at this week's run and/or copy and paste it into a club email? See you there but will see you at the expo first.

Michael Brennan

(he's in charge of the pace bunnies at Scotia Waterfront Marathon)

Run Club Shopping evening at Mountain Equipment Co-Op, Toronto

Monday, September 27th, 2010 from 7:30 - 9pm

10% discount on most products within the store, including already discounted products

Large selection of running apparel, shoes, accessories, base and mid layers, insulated clothing, trek and hiking clothing, etc. In case you didn't know, MEC carries it's own brand of excellent quality and well-priced clothing and gear, carries the Patagonia brand of clothing, and now carries bikes - city, road and mountain bikes and accessories.

When you arrive at the door just tell the staff you're there for Running Club Night (the store is open only to running club members from 7:30 - 9pm)...

Address - 400 King Street West (east of Spadina Ave.)
Parking - Underground off Charlotte Street (not associated with MEC), large lot at Wellington and Peter Street (a few minutes away), street parking, etc.

Montreal Marathon

2010-09-07T19:34:00.003-04:00

The Montreal Marathon on Sept 5 was a well done event. Jim Tuttle had decided he was going to run it a couple of weeks ago and the next thing you know Tracy and I come up with a plan to go to. My sister lives in Kanata, which is about 2 hours from Montreal, so it was nice to go for a visit and then head to Montreal to run the Marathon, after all, it was a long weekend.We all stayed at the Delta Centre Ville which had some mixed reviews, but was good for us, you cant knock a 6pm late checkout.The expo was quite small but lots of friendly folks to help you get your nice tech shirt and basic goody bag. Race day was cool, cloudy, and windy,minus the wind would have been nice. The route was great and scenic with a couple of hills and inclines, the hardest was at 37k as you came to Olympic Stadium and had to run up a 1.5k long hill and go around it before entering and finishing the last 200m inside the stadium.It was kind of funny to hear all the supporters cheering saying "Bravo", but reminded you were in Quebec.One cool area we ran was on the Jacques Villeneuve F1race track for about 5k.We all posted good times and Jim's 3:38 PB was well earned.
So, Jim, Tracy, myself and a few other Road Runners are off to Rochester NY this weekend for another Marathon.
Stay tuned,Tracy and I are now into our 5 Marathons in 5 weeks streak.

Terry Fox Run

2010-09-07T17:32:00.000-04:00

The 30th running of the Terry Fox Run will take place along Barrie's waterfront on Sunday, September 19th. This event, held in communities across Canada, has generated awareness and funding for cancer research. Join us at Centennial Beach to run, jog, walk, or wheel from 8am - 1pm. The official start is at 9am, but the event is otherwise a drop-in format. The route is marked for 5km, and the untimed event is great for families who can do any combination of that distance. If you would like to dedicate your regular Sunday run to the cause, please drop by the registration table any time that morning to make a donation and have yourself counted as part of the Marathon of Hope.

Midsummer Night's Run Aug 21 2010

2010-09-06T10:34:00.003-04:00

Oh I know ... late again, but I didn't want to steal the thunder of the SS240 write ups. That was some amazing running there wasn't it? Holy Hannah! Well done to all the Barrie teams that signed up! And a hearty congratulations to all the Barrie teams that placed in the top three of their divisions. WOOT WOOT!!!

On the same day the Simcoe Shores relay race was held another race was being run that evening, A Midsummer Night's Run in support of the Dept of Rheumatology at Sick Kids Hospital. I had a heavy decision to make regarding the relay vs. MNR and after weighing all the pros and cons up - I chose to run the MNR. I had a lot of fun running it last year with my fairy wings and tutu, this year had no reason not to be the same.

After some discussion in the back of the Running Room with fellow runner Jen Remazki & Cindy Marcelli I decided to join Team Abby, named after Jen's 7 year old neice Abby who has been suffering from Juvenile Arthritis since she was 2. We put out the call to our running friends for donations and once again the runners in Barrie answered the call. Donations started coming in. Jen was incredible with her fundraising abilities.
Then one night on the way home it hit me like a solid gold brick. RAFFLES ... the idea was to put together two baskets of donated items to raffle off: a runners basket & a pamper yourself basket. So again I threw my net out and once again the response was tremendous, donations were happily given by one and all. Tickets were FLYING out the door & by the time race day dawned we had raised $2500 for Sick Kids! WE WERE THE # 1 FUND RAISING TEAM!!!

Then off to the race we went - with, what we thought, was plenty of time. Yeah .. erhm... not so much. Traffic was manical on the 400 getting to the 401 East - So I said to Cindy well it shouldn't take that long to get the the 404 DVP .
Oh, said Cindy, we're taking Dufferin.
Are you sure? I think the DVP would be quicker.
Nope the Garmin says we are 9 minutes away. It'll take longer to get on the DVP.
Are you sure?

So for an hour the Garmin told us we were 9 minutes away. Stupid Garmin. So we sent a calm call to Alan Hewson to see if he could grab out race kits as we were ever so delayed. What a hero!!!
Along the 401 we got separated from Jen & her Mum so we agreed to meet up at the race. They took the low road & we took the slow road. *groans* Ackkk. Oh well.

*sighs*

We got there with time to spare. Found Alan, the portopotties & a wonderful tech hoodie rather than long sleeve Tech shirt in our race kits. I had my 60K button as well... life was good. Now back to the race-mobile and get kitted out for the race. We donned on our blue boas, sparkly blue bear metallic gift wrap decorations, our blue & green ribbons for our hair & we were ready for the next 3 + hours.
Abby & her older sister Marly were there to help us get ready & cheer us on. We'd meet them at the last 200 metres and they would run in with us. Mark Trenton the race director even agreed to allowing them to recieve a medal. What a guy! They even provided us with a free entry into the 2011 MNR for our raffle basket. Amazing support from the race directors office!! A big shout out to them.

I had little idea what or how I would be able to run seeing as the longest I managed to run was 14 k the Sunday before. This was going to be interesting. Very interesting indeed. My foot no longer bothered me & my calf musle was behaving as well. Fingers crossed.
After some discussion along the way we agreed upon running 15 & 2's. As Jen's mantra was "15 & 2's will see you thru! "
And it really did.

They changed the beginning of the run - Runners went south on Cherry St - to Cherry Beach and then along the Martin Goodman Trail, turn around at Urwin Bridge back out to Cherry St N and along Commissioners Drive. Then out to Tommy Thompson Park - around the light house and then through Ashbridge Bay Park then back on Commissioners to Bouchette where the finish (and start) is located.

I didn't have my Garmin with me & Cindy's wasn't functioning it was up to Jen to be the time keeper & pacer for that matter. Though I would make comments about how fast we were going & where did they think the race was?
As we headed towards Tommy Thompson Park we were over taken by herds of 15K runners and amongst them was the Rock Star himself Rick Ball! We must have sounded like crazy folks screaming out his name & cheering him on. Then on the way back more Rick. I did challenge him to a race earlier that week on Facebook, but well, I didn't want to embarass him in front of all his really incredibly fast running buddies. It just wasn't the right time. There will be other races. *ahahah*

Man those 15 & 2's were wonderful. I was puffing abit by the 13 minute mark and couldn't wait for the last 120 seconds to pass, but I wasn't about to fall over from exhaustion. This was the way to go!
Cindy was having difficulty with her hip and would need to ease the pain out now and again. Jen was just a task master which was amazing!!! Otherwise I'd have shaved off a few extra seconds here and there on our runs.

And as we came out of Tommy Thompson Park and headed towards Ashbridge Bay Park the rain was seriously coming down, it has been spitting earlier but now finally made the decision to release constant drops of warm water on our heads. Our boa's would be ruined.. oh well. Many a compliments we wee receiving on our "costumes" . We had dressed in the same blue shirts, black compression tights & boa's. We had it going ON!

As we were turning into the Park Cindy's spirits were seriously lagging. Funny as it was to listen to, I felt for her. It had been a long 22k to that point & it was getting darker and darker with no water stations and not that many more lights on the course. Having watched one too many episodes of Criminal Minds - every corner had a potential Reaper behind it. Every noise from the woods was a cry for help. I couldn't get out of there fast enough. Were those 15 & 2's getting longer? What the heck? You want us to go around where? How much further? WHAT? ack. Poor Cindy. She wasn't loving the Park. I was happy when we were heading towards the exit, or is that the entrance? hmm.

We hit the 27K mark and I seriously needed a walk & a walk I was granted. I think all of us needed that break, we walked almost to the 28K marker. The rain was very steady by this point but it was a relief from the heat.
We hit the 29 K mark and were still running well. Granted we weren't the fastest things on two legs, but it was all about finishing - I wasn't about posting a PB. I hadn't run any long distances since March really. I was pretty darn proud of myself.
We could hear the crowds & music of the finish line and knew it was only a matter of moments before we'd meet up with Abby & Marly and sure enough 200 metres before the finish there were the girls cheering for us. We all grabbed hands and headed towards the finish line arms in the air!! Alan came and joined us for the last km or so, which was fantastic - it perked us up as well.
Jen, Cindy & I crossed the finish line in 3:45 - I had given myself a finish time of 4 hrs so I was more than pleased with my time. In fact I was over the moon!

Abby & Marly got there medals, Sick Kids got our donation of $2500, we got the priviledge of running for a cause! It was a stellar run!

Thanks to everyone who helped us become the top fund raising team!
Alan, Jayme, Stephen, 5 Peaks, Chatherine, MNR, the Barrie Running Room, Sandra, Trish, Samantha, Jen, James.
Thanks EVERYONE that supported us by donations & raffle tickets!

And the best part of it all, little Abby thought everyone doing the Midsummer Night's Run was running for her on Team Abby! And in a way they all were!
Thanks Mark & team for putting such a great run together for such a worthy cause.

After we headed back to the race-mobile changed out of our wet running gear, threw on some dry clothes and our nifty new black hoodie from the run and headed over to the SS240 relay race to start our shift as race crew for the Barrie Backpackers! Now that's a story for another day.

Until til the next race, which is Steamtown, take care of yourselves.
See you around.

Montreal Marathon

2010-09-05T15:52:00.002-04:00

A couple of RoadRunners took off to Montreal to run the Marathon there this weekend. The Macleaniacs (Rick & Tracy) and Jim Tuttle had a good day with Jim's time of 3:38 I believe is a PB, by at least 10 minutes (??). While Rick finished in 3:58 and Tracy 5:17. Great job guys!!

RoadRunners SS240k Relay Team Pictures

2010-08-26T20:38:00.005-04:00

5 Peaks Trail Running Series - Terra Cotta

2010-08-25T13:40:00.002-04:00

Okay so August 7th was another exciting installment of the 5 Peaks Trail Running Series & I was going to be Cindy Marcelli for the run! I was some excited! It was a 12.4 k trail race & the most I had done was the 10k at Muskoka rocks the Sunday before.

I had my daughter Chelsea volunteer at the race as well so we could go together and share the day. It was slightly over cast - but it was going to be a brilliant day. As I followed Terry from Barrie down the highway then over hill and dale, through a wrong turn we finally ended up at the race 10 minutes before it was due to start. We got our bibs & chips with 6 minutes to spare. ACK! Under pressure.
Again Barrie was representing! I can't get over the amount of Barrie runners that seem to go to every race in the area & then further a field as well.
Rickymac, Trixiemac, Cynthia Osbourne, Chris Batagglia, Terry from Barrie, Sandra, Kelly H, Greg, Stephen, Kellie M & myself. Plus a few familiar faces from races gone by.

The race goes off in waves. I let the first wave go, then the second wave and I decided to go on the 3rd wave - just cuz. And off I went. Around the field, through the stone path and down towards the wooded trails. Man they weren't kidding when they said it was tough. There were more exposed roots then on a bleached blonde! Rocks, roots, rough patches ... it was abound with challenges. I kept telling myself it wasn't a race, it was a run. Just a Saturday morning trail run for fun, no need to get my knickers in a knot about "finishing" in a certain spot, finishing was enough. Though I would feel horrible if I made Cindy come in last or worse yet not at all. I so didn't want to DNF.

So I over took gingerly, shouted out " on your left " and moved by several runners, down a nice hill, across a gravel path & then heading towards the pavillion where you turn back on yourself for about 200 metres and then into the woods again. I had spied Tracy and hoped I could catch up to her. I did around the 4 k mark. She was right in front of me about 50 metres so I passed a few more folks to siddle up right behind her, we chatted for a while, but Tracy was suffering from her boat race nights. So I toddled on ahead & up up up the big hill, popped out of the woods around to field and over to the start / finish line to the left of the inflatable and on to the next loop. I grabbed a cup of water from my daughter that was manning the water station, her cheering me on was awesome! I really needed that. Off again toward the woods & to finish the race, I mean technically I was over half way by that point.
I was still feeling okay. I was pushing it slightly when I could. I was following a couple of runners but as hard as I tried to catch up to them, I just didn't have the legs for it. I rounded the 8 k mark and felt a bit of fatigue starting to settle on me. So I slowed my pace down - there was no need to get tired on a trail run and then fall over, down or on something. I am at best, an accident waiting to happen, so I took extreme caution here.
By the 10 k mark I was talking myself into a good finish, there was the big uphill, I could do that. But instead of walking it like I should have done, I ran it. I believe that's were I tore my calf muscle slightly again. *sighs*
I couldn't believe how silly I was! It's not a bad one, but I can feel it now just the same. As the last kilometre was looming ahead I kept telling myself that I didn't want fall over the finish line. So I'd better smarten up and get my poop on a scoop! I crossed with a time of 1:34. All things considering, not too bad. I didn't let Cindy down & she wasn't the last one across the finish line.
Woohoo!

One of our runners Greg McKinnon got a podium place in the sport race - 6K. Well done Greg! Congrats on the excellent showing!

Then TfB, Sandra, Kelly H, Chelsea & I headed out of town after the awards and door prizes for a nibble to eat. We ended up at a lovely little eating establishment called Cheeks in Bolton. That was a tastey treat! Especially when my daughter bought it for me. WOOHOO!!

Then some how I managed to miss the turning towards King City and ended having to get on the 400 from Finch Ave. Don't ask. I have NO idea.

And lastly just a shout out to 5 Peaks for their contribution towards the Runners Gift Basket we sold raffle tickets for. They provided us with a 5 peaks running series hat & steel water bottle as well as a Powerade reuseable bag. Thanks!!! We really appreciate it.

Muskoka Rocks 10 K

2010-08-25T12:43:00.002-04:00

Well fellow runners, I'm a tad bit behind in my blogging! I know ! I know! Who knew there were OTHER things in my life to take up my blogging time!

As you know, when we last left our heroine she was suffering from tendonitis which, according to all reports, would leave her sidelined for 6 weeks. No running for her! None. Zero, zip, zilch, nada, buttkiss! It was a dark time for our heroine: a dark time indeed, filled with doubt, pain, depression & anxiety. However salvation came in the form of her bicycle. And so our story begins again...

Having promised Tracymac that I would be a group leader for her 10k clinic it was a bit of a bummer to be side lined with this friggin tendonitis. ( I say that with all the respect in the world cuz it really HURT !!) Being very staunch about my commitments, I had to figure out a way to keep on helping. Then it dawned on me: I have a bicycle, I can ride my bike with my runners and work with them that way! WOW~~~ I loved that idea. Until the first night of hill training. I was determined not to ride in granny gear for the Wednesday night hill training & what a work out! And my bike is a mountain bike - about 27 pounds - huge tires. *sighs* so it was great for the quads & glutes. Yikes!

So my RMT said no running until August & I had agreed to that & I meant it. Muskoka Rocks which was out goal race was August 1st. That's August to me. Right? So I kept up my long bike rides & hill training and tempo rides with the group & all the while said a little uhmna to the universe to help me be ready.
I tried a small run the week before and got 560 meters under my belt. I had to turn around less than 300 meters into the run, I could feel my foot flaring up. This did not bode well for August 1st & Muskoka Rocks. But I kept a positive attitude as best as I could and kept saying my little uhmna.

So the morning of arrived & off I went with my partner in many crimes of late, Cindy Marcelli. We packed in our racing bags & our golf bags, I mean if the weather's good why not get 9 in? Right?! So off we headed for Minett, Ontario, punched in the rough address to my Magellan & headed off in a northerly direction. With a little bit of difficulty I located the Peninsula Rec Centr, the start/finish line , then found parking and found Rickiemac & our race kits. Our tech shirts were marvellous - the back of it had written on it THE HARDEST 10K in CANADA - (or something like that... ) I just about fainted. Awesome!! Can't wait!

Found the rest of the 10K clinic folks & got some pre race pictures & got ready for the start. Found one Mr Jim Tuttle wandering about the grounds & beckoned him over. The facility we were at didn't allow the runners to use any of the amenities so off to the portopotties we went. I think there were 6 of them, so by the time everyone had arrived the line up was stretched down the road. Race Directors: how about a few extra next year?

So the race plan was to stick with Cindy who was coaching first timer Britney through the race. Nice and slow. No heroics! No running hell bent for leather. Just a slow and steady plod after all it was going to be hilly. So I was going to walk what hills I had to as to not aggravate my calf issue either. It was going to be a SMART run.

After some shuffling of the runners we were all ready to begin the race - PART WAY UP A FRIGGING HILL!! Really? Seriously? Fine, fine, fine. It can't get much worse that that. Can it. Well they were right, it was a hilly run. I started the race with Cindy & Britney - we were at a very comfy 7:22 pace. I was confident in the fact I would manage just jimdandy with that pace. As we headed for the first water station, which was advertised to be at the 2k mark, but really closer to 2.75 k (but who's taking note of things such as that) I felt a bit of a hop to my step & headed off to test my "wings" so to speak. There were some incredibly large hills. The one at 3k that was going down was nice, but the fact you know you are running up it at the 6k mark made it a bit daunting.
The rest were rolling hills and I could talk my way through them. I walked when I felt I had to. I kept to my 10 & 1's. Steady. Steady. Steady. I got to the BIG HILL and although I had passed one runner only, I had another one in my sights. He wasn't that far ahead of me & I dislike him with all my might, but the hill was bigger. I had to walk it, there was no way I was willing to throw 6 weeks of recovery down the drain for 300 meters. I would gain on him then he'd take off running. Ohhh... that was soooooooo annoying! ACK!! Then I passed another runner who was struggling as well, but it wasn't THE fellow. It wasn't the same feeling. By this point I was running 300 meters and walking about 100 meters. I was TOAST! So much for the cardio fitness on the bike rides. BLECH.
I came up the final hill and started passing the 5k walkers that were still out on the course. By now all of the other 10 k clinic members had finished. I passed them on the way to the turn around. Heckled Aiden McGee as he came speeding by me on his return leg and by the way he came in 1st in his age group. I like to think my positive remarks to him helped spur him on to his amazing finish. AHAH.

I tried to finish strong. I still have Kevin O's voice in my head from time to time. " finish strong" aackk.. ALRIGHT!! ALRIGHT!!. And I picked it up. I was looking at the finishing time and saw 59:xx on the digital timer & I went faster & faster. I couldn't believe the time! Could it be true? could I be under one hour for a 10k? Yeah, not so much! I was looking at the 5k clock. My time was 1:10. Not bad for a first run back on the most difficult course in Canada!
I'd take that for sure.

Afterwards we stayed to watch Aiden be presented with his award, he's a terrific runner for all of his 14 years. Darren Collins was there as well & placed 6th over all and 2nd in his age group. Well done gentlemen! Well done.

I would definitely go back again! It's a great course, definitely tough, but definitely worth the drive to Minett.

CHOCOLATE RACE Volunteers Needed!!!

2010-08-24T13:56:00.001-04:00

Hi Everyone,

We could still use some volunteers at the upcoming Chocolate Race in Port Dalhousie (near St. Catharine's) on August 29th. Those of you that are running the race may know of someone - perhaps a family member or friend - that would like to come and cheer you on from the best seat in the house..right on the course! If you are injured and are not running anyway c'mon down and be a part of a great event! Also a great opportunity for students to get their volunteer time for school so bring them out! They'll have a great time and get some hours signed off too!

Please reply by email as soon as possible to let me know if you can help out or if you know of someone that could (spouse, friend, family, teen aged kids). The race is actually THIS SUNDAY so I need my numbers firmed up ASAP.
Time Commitment - Sunday August 29th 8:30am to 12:30pm (only 4 hours!!)

Where - Port Dalhousie ON (next to St. Catharine's ON...it is GORGEOUS there!)

Why - to be a part of one of the BEST races on the circuit. RD is Diane of Dirty Girls fame..if you ran her race this month then you know she puts on a great one!

Accommodations - if you don't want to drive down from Barrie on Sunday morning we have FREE accommodations at my friends place 15 mins from the start. There is enough sleeping room for close to 20 inside and tons of acreage to pitch a tent if you prefer.

What's in it for YOU? - Free entrance to the chocolate after party (free chocolate !! ) and a Free beverage at a local establishment (think beer, wine or chocolate martini, chocolate milk for those under 19 :) ) These items are only being offered to Barrie volunteers to say a HUGE thanks for coming down to help out.

What's in it for ME? - having the confidence that the volunteers I have on course are doing an awesome job and knowing that we have a great and supportive running community!

Many have said they will assist, NOW is the time to commit...pretty please! This involves directing the runners on the course, cheering (we do it best in Barrie) and supporting those that you know participating in the event.

I am in need of a minimum of 16 bodies for the course marshaling. If I get more than I need (how awesome would THAT be), we can look at pairing people together...

If you can respond by email today it would be sooo appreciated! Hoping to count on your support. It is going to be a GREAT day!

Thanks so much!
Catherine

cath.harding@gmail.com

Simcoe Shores, an Old Guys Perspective

2010-08-22T19:15:00.005-04:00

Well what a weekend. While it is a little early to know all the results and lack of sleep makes, at least myself a little sleepy. It seems that the Barrie RoadRunners were very successful at the first annual Simcoe Shores 240k relay. With I believe 8 teams out of the total of 41 teams that showed up we were well represented. BKB, Barrie Dashers, Faster than a 93 Civic, RoadRunners 2, The Heat waves, Barrie Packers, the Sole Sisters and us the RoadRunners Oldguys.
The festivities or race start began at 7:30 am on Saturday morning with the first wave heading out from the waterfront in downtown Barrie, the second wave including the Oldguys started at 9 am. The fast third wave started at 10:30. Our team included Darren Collins, Bill Lovett, Oliver Owens, Brendan Kavanagh, Theo Bosch, Roger Ison and Keith Lascelles. Our first runner was the speedy Darren Collins who started tucked in behind the leader for the first 6 or 7k before passing him on the rail trail at the 5th/6th side road. Darren came in comfortably in first place for wave 2, in our first leg, handing off to Theo. Theo had been battling a few injuries and other than a short run on the previous wednesday hadn't run for a couple of weeks, so this would be interesting. Theo ran strong and steady on his leg to the fifth line of Oro and up towards Bass lake Road at the Hand off Theo was in second place and let Brendan take over. Despite telling him to take it nice and easy, Brendan tore up what was a very difficult hilly leg and left a large gap between himself and second. Bill took over next and kept a strong a steady pace on rollign hills passing first wave runners who had started 90 minutes ahead of us. Bill passed on to Keith who immediatley had a couple of huge climbs to tackle, which would be a test for his injuries that had turned the year of running into a challenge. Keith tackled the hills and forced himself to do 10 and 1's to lessen the impact on the sore achilles and hamstrings issues. As Keith finished his left achilles twinged a bit and after finishing thought that, that might be it for the weekend, with only one leg done. Oliver took over from here to the end of the first stage and brought us in tied for first in our wave. 4 hours and 41 minutes. It turns out that only 3 teams from the final wave beat our time too, so we were fourth overall at this point. A 2 hour break took place in Orillia at this point.
The second stage from Orillia to Midland would round out the daylight hours and Started with Roger, who found the humidity tough on a very hilly leg. Darren took over next and chased a very fast runner from the Velocity team from Orillia, keeping us with in 5 minutes. One of the performances of the weekend for our team was next to come with Brendan taking over 5 minutes behind the front runners in our wave, on a very scenic and flat trail leg he caught the lead team with in 5k and built a sizable lead as he came into Coldwater and passed off to Bill again. Bill contiued at a steady pace as he passed many first wave teams, but try as he might he couldn't catch James Rooney at the leg end. James showed some true grit to fend him off at the finish, good job James! Theo had, like Keith decided to miss a leg to see how the injuries were fairing and Oliver had stepped up to run to Victoria Harbour. The humidity at this point was very thick and dusk was approaching. Another good run from Oliver borught into the exchange and Roger ran to finish our 2nd stage in Midland in the twilight hours. We were the third team in overall. but still had changed positions overall or in our age category. At this time both Theo and Keith withdrew due to injury. Another break ensued for about an hour and a half, before the next waves got started at 9:30, 10:00 and 10:30pm. We started at 10 and Brendan ran hard against another tough runner in the dark. This would be a test for a lot of runners as most had never run trails in the dark, lights were a must and some found out cheaper lights just don't cut it. The trails were pitch black and very hard to see the footing, regardless Brendan ran well and passed over to Darren who quickly took over first place again running into Wyevale. Another leg by Oliver followed which would take us into Wasaga Beach into the early hours of Sunday morning. While supporting Oliver along the route on Floss Rd 11 just coming into the Beach we noticed a electric moped being driven eratically in Olivers direction so we tunred round to warn Oliver and another support vehicle down the road. The moped then tried to run oliver off the road turned around and came back, we then confronted and stopped the moped. Some very "stoned" individual with no helmet either. A text from Theo revealed that they ahd talked to the OPP at another turn who had actually stopped the moped earlier and let him go on home???? Olivers run continued rather uneventfully, althought the humidity seemed to be talking its toll. Roger followed on to due battle with drunks downtown in Wasaga as the bars were letting out. No problems but somewhat entertaining. Meanwhile the rest of the team headed to the next stage end to set up up a tent and try and get some sleep (not very successfully). More to come...

Part Two
While some of the team were making an attempt to sleep, Roger, finished his leg into the Sportspark with support from Theo and Brendan. A couple of hours laying around or walking around chatting to some of the other teams. A four o'clock wake up call and we were shuffling around getting ready and packing back up for Stage 4. Darren started the first leg off and to the west end of Wasaga Beach, up against a couple of formidable runners. Darren ran comfortably hard and finished the leg in 2nd place right behind the first place runner still in the dark. Oliver would take over for the 2nd leg and he blew out of the exchange zone with a sense of purpose. "Oliver, slow down, you've got a long way to go", Oliver was chasing a much faster runner and soon could only see a red flashing light in the distance. But Oliver is a strong and steady runner and maintained his steady pace. About halfway throught the leg, he was starting to get a little disillusioned and even offered to drop for the good of the team, but we would here nothing of it. We are a team and unless he was injured he was going to finish as a team. At one point Oliver asked if there was anyone behind him that we ccould see, we lied and said there was no one in sight. Actually we could see a light in the distance. We told him afterwards! Daylight was starting to show throught the clouds at this point and after a much longer leg than he thought, rounding a corner he saw the exchange zone and almost wet himself with delight. He was almost done for the race.
Bill would take over for what would be advertised as the toughest leg of the whole race up the mountain, or the escarpment. After he took off we followed, but had to make a pit stop for Brendan when we came upon an portable toilet about 1k from the exchange zone, WTF. After a long time waiting we took off after Bill, but couldn't follow to support as the road was closed to vehicles. At least it was supposed to be as some went through anyway. We found the alternate route and met up with Theo and Roger at the next exchange zone. At the top of a large hill we waited and thought we would be a long while. Some of the fast wave runners came through as we waited, but then we saw Dawn Hamel from the Velocity Team powering up the hill in first place for our wave. 55 years old and she was running up the hill like it was flat, amazing run. But shortly after Dawn came in, we saw Bill. He finished making up 5 minutes on the leaders in only 9k. Another amazing performance. Before Bill arrived we had a team discussion about Roger doing the next leg as apparently it was tougher than the level 5 leg that Bill was doing. But the following legs would be all downhill and Roger doesn't like downhill running, so off he went. And wow, Roger stormed up the hills, one after the next and passed the lead runner. The hills kept coming and Roger kept attakcing them, with a few walks thrown in. The rain had settled in and Roger was in heaven, loving the wet conditions. It also got very foggy as we finally pulled in to the second last exchange. Brendan was itching to go and off he went and the leg was definitly downhill and Brendan was loving it (he would pay for it on Monday). The Irish Flash was flying down the hills, but with about 2k to go he started to feel it and you could see his form break down a bit. He ran on galantly and came into the exchnage zone he looked relieved to pass on to Darren to run the last 5.2k. We soon realized that with only 5.2k, to run and Darren running it, we better get moving to the finish or Darren would be there before us. Darren finished the 5.2k in only 19 minutes. At about 9:30 Sunday morning we finshed, third place overall and second in our age group. We knew we were doing well, but we didn't think we could oull that off. After brekkie, we met up with some of the other Barrie teams finishing. A good day/night was had by all and Barrie teams did extremely well most placing in the various awards. Congrats to all. Thanks to all the volunteers, and support crews out there. hopefully we'll get some pictures up soon. And I'm sure we'll all be back next year, some of us may even be healthy enough to actually run.

Races from 10K to 240K this weekend

2010-08-16T18:25:00.002-04:00

Lots of races happening this weekend for Barrie RoadRunners. The Island Girl 10K and Midsummers Night Run 15K/30K in Toronto are a couple of races with BRR participating in. Of course the other big Race is the Simcoe Shores 240K Relay. There are quite a few teams from Barrie participating in this Ultra distance relay which starts in Barrie Saturday and finishes in Collingwood on Sunday. Many have been training at all times of the day and night for this one to get used to the schedule. It looks like perfect weather so far for all the events. Good luck and enjoy your race.

The Last Iroquois Trail Test

2010-08-07T10:35:00.002-04:00

If anyone is looking for a great trail race to do on August 21st, the 10th and FINAL ever Iroquois trail test 30k is taking place north of Burlington. Put on by the Burlington Runners, they have decided that this will be the last one.

Dirty Girls and 5 peaks today

2010-08-07T10:28:00.002-04:00

A lot of Barrie RoadRunners are running trails this weekend! With the 5 peaks series continuing in Terra Cotta, near Orangville and the Dirty Girls series of races at Mansfield. The Dirty Girls races include a 30k race and 6, 12 and 24 hr events.
Good luck to all.

Midland Waterfront 6K Run & 1K Kids Run

2010-07-27T20:05:00.007-04:00

Monday, August 2 at 9am, online registration closes July 31 at 6:00pm.

Proceeds to our local food bank

Location: Harbourside Park, Rotary Waterfront Trail, Midland

Registration: https://www.onlineregistrations.ca/midlandWater/

Schedule:

8:00am – registration opens

9:00am – 6K start ($25.00...$5.00more on race day)

10:20am-1K start ($free)...kids receive loot bags, finisher certificates and more....

10:30am – awards

Driven Athletics will be offering free demo crossfit workouts...come and test your fitness level!

Dr. Bill Cameron from Total Body Pain and Injury Clinic will be offering a flexibility and stretching session after the event.

Midland Tri Club will be selling cook books for $5.00 each.

BIG Thank you to the sponsors:

An Iron Man / Ultra Marathoners Grocery List

2010-07-26T07:00:00.002-04:00

Hi Avid Readers/Runners:

I just came across this article and thought " hey this might be groovy for everyone to read". So here you go, a link to the aforesaid article by Brendan Brazier top Ironman & Ultra runner. I'm pretty much liking this diet, being the vegetarian that I am. The only thing that makes me gag to the max is the "Sea Vegetables". Sea Veggies? Really? EEWWEEE... it tastes like the SEA!!! Blech!

http://www.besthealthmag.ca/blog/post/guest-blog-an-ironmans-grocery-list

Enjoy!

J

5Peaks Trail Series newsletter inviting all to check out the course for the next race...

2010-07-19T21:11:00.001-04:00

Thought this was a pretty cool newsletter from David Grant, the new race director for this year's 5 Peaks series for Southern Ont. This series is getting more popular each year and many sign up for the entire series to avoid the inevitable sellout of each of the five events...

"Hi Trail Racers,
Our next race is coming up on August 7th. As far as park staff could tell me, this will be the first ever trail race at Terra Cotta Conservation Area. We've got a great route planned. It's a 5.8km loop... once for the Sport race, twice for the Enduro race. It skirts several ponds and we had to wait to see their summer water levels, so the maps are still pending, but the course is locked in now. It will be 4.8km of very fast, wide, scenic trails and 1km of extremely rooty singletrack that will push you into a locker and take your lunch money.
So let's check it out with a couple of preview runs on Saturday, July 24th and Saturday, July 31st - both at 9am. Meet at the main wooden pavilion east of the main washroom building. You can't miss it.
If you're training for a fall marathon and need to log a longer training run, why not run a couple laps of the trail and then head out to add distance along the quiet country roads surrounding the conservation area?

These will be purely informal, non-competitive group runs to meet and hang out with likeminded trail enthusiasts. So there are two catches:
1. You're responsible for your own park entry fee ($4.75). On raceday you don't pay this, but on any other day you do, and these will be any other days.
2. There are flush toilets onsite and I'm going to bring my portable BBQ and some hot dogs and veggie dogs, but otherwise this is BYO everything. That includes your own liability. You're solely responsible for your own safety, including but not limited to: bumps, bruises, sprains, dehydration, alien abduction, Beatlemania, The Noid, whatever.
Since this is just an informal run among friends, please invite anyone you want. They don't have to be registered for the race. They just have to have fun in the outdoors!
See you there.
David Grant
5 Peaks Race Director"

Massey Marathon

2010-07-18T20:22:00.003-04:00

A few Barrie RoadRunners competed in the Massey Marathon this weekend including Chris Dixon,Alan Hewson,John Beddome,John Mckee,Brian Lancia in the Marathon. In the Half Marathon there was Eric Jackson, Erik Thompson,Mimmi Thompson, Kerstin Thompson and Nancy Chong who was 1st in her age group Half Marathon. Also there was the non stop running maniac Chris Battaglia who ran the 56k Limberlost trail race on Saturday near Huntsville,and the Massey Full Marathon today, Sunday. Congrats to everyone, and Chris B, take a day off, take two!

Limber Lost Challenge

2010-06-26T16:06:00.000-04:00

Saturday July 17th will be here soon. That is the date for The Limberlost Challenge. Check out our website at www.thelimberlostchallenge.com . We are sure that TLC will become your favourite trail event. The course is spectacular and the post race food will be memorable (all runners love good food!). We anticipate at least 180 runners in all events - 14km, 28km and 56km. Camping is available for the Friday night. TLC is race #7 in the twelve event Ontario Ultra Series, now in its 22nd year.(www.ouser.org) Join us.

regards,

Neil Jefferson
co race director

NOW Taking Orders for Barrie RoadRunners Apparel...

2010-06-24T00:06:00.000-04:00

Hey folks!

Check out the Barrie RoadRunners Apparel Blog for details on our current shirt and singlet order!

Niagara Ultra Half Marathon - The last of my Summer runs.

2010-06-20T22:11:00.006-04:00

Oh where to start.
So back in January I had decided I was going to work towards my first Ultra with Cindy M. It was going to be LOTS OF FUN!! Or something like that.
However as my Marathon training for Mississauga came to a grinding halt by ways of a torn muscle in my calf so did any hopes of managing to do the Niagara Ultra, so I decided to sign up for the half marathon.
I mean I've done many of them, it's nothing new, I can manage a half marathon on a bad day. And boy was this going to be a bad day. Eek!!

So I took a half day off of work to get home and pack, walk the dogs, mow the lawn and change all before 2pm. aahhhaha.. Well the dogs got walk and I got packed. The main thing is I remember my running shoes.
Cindy Marcelli, Jennifer Remazki and I piled into Cindy's car and off we headed for the Niagara on the Lake.
We managed to make it all the way to Grimbsy before we had to pull into the big Gateway to Niagara Service Station to grab a potty break and grab a quick drink and a slice of 'zza for myself. I managed to miss lunch in all my runnings around.
We got to the kit pick up location shortly after it opened to runners. And low and behold there were several other BRR folks there picking up there kits. Now there's a freaking surprise. I have a feeling that Barrie RoadRunners would show up at the opening of a letter if there was a run involved.

I happily jumped out to of the really big line up for the Ultra & Full Marathon to the half line up and jauntily provided the gentleman with my name. I was crossed off the list and then scooted around behind me for my sweatshirt. Still stinging from the fact I wasn't able to run the Ultra or the full - my sweatshirt mocked me openingly. Everyone else was getting a hoodie!! A HOODIE!!
But I do like the colour red & it's a wonderful departure from last years half marathon sign up pressie (a key chain) so really I'm not complaining. I'm merely lamenting at my fate.

After much chit chatting and hugging with other BRR's and family we headed off in search of some dinner. We were unfamiliar with the local eateries and were really just going to be going on our common sense & in a car with 3 blondes - good luck with that.
So as we drove away - turned the corner to head towards our hotel there it was - ALFREDOS Eatery and Bar. Well it must be Italian with a name like Alfredo's, right? As we walked in I couldn't help but feel some trepidation as to what we were in for. Things aren't often what they seem - and as I gazed around what I thought to be an old converted Wendy's restaurant, I could only pray to the universe to make it so.
We were presented with a huge jug of water & lemons & a very friendly waitress. She used some rather colourful words during our discussion over the menu. Wasn't the worlds most robust menu but they had the basics.
I ordered my Penne Primevra & garlic bread. There can't be enough carbs if it's going to be as stinking hot as they say it's going to be. They, of course, being Enviroment Canada. Now as far as I'm concerned they could organize a F*** up in a Brothel with a hand full of fivers, but that's just my humble opinion. Nor can they predict with any accuracy the weather. However; having grown up in the Niagara Region - I know it's stinking hot and humid down there - so I'll err on the side of caution. Carbs - white bread and white pasta carbs.
Our meals were ever so yummy. Looks definitely are deceiving and not only that, well priced & the service was really pleasant and timely.

We finally got to the hotel, booked in and made our way to our room. A cot was ordered for Greg as he was staying with us. Cindy & I have bunked together a few times before so we know what to expect from each other. Jennifer well it was her first time with us, but I had no worries that she'd manage just fine with us.
We laid out all our race gear for the next morning. Crawled into our respective beds and/or cots and watched the most bizarre movie ever "the perfect getaway" definitely not on my "find the DVD and add to my collection" list. *shudders* However; great little conversation starter on whodunitt.
Morning came directly after the night faded away and with that - Cindy's alarm clock. One by one we took our turn in the bathroom and got ready, rather bleary eyed. My oatmeal was purdy much made with luke warm water, I must say that is the most revolting thing in the morning. Eww - not the way I wanted to start the morning, but the Hampton Inn (by Hilton) started their 6am complimentary breakfast early and we all managed to find something to nibble on, loaded our bags back into the car and off we went for the start of the races.
The start times were being staggered. 7am for the Ultra, 7:30 am for the Marathon, 8:00am for the half and then half an hour later again for the 10k.

As I lined up for the half and scooted up front with Nancy, Brian, John, Lisa and Josef I started to prepare for the stinking humid run. I had my gu's & Eload replacement drink in my water bottle. Off we went. I was planning on a pace between 6 / 6:30 - my first K was under 6 minutes. Drat - however; I was running 3k's and 1 minute walk so after the first walk I should be able to reign myself in. It was about running the distance - not getting a PB. So I got myself into a good rythmn and managed to stay between a 6 /6:14 pace. I caught up to Josef and we ran for several kilometers and then I started to pull forward. I wasn't feeling much discomfort in my calf and I gave myself free reign to run as my body desired. There was however quite a camber on the path & I found it difficult to find a good side to run on to minimize the uneven distribution on my legs. I could tell I was over compensating. At the turn around point I started to feel something weird in my right foot which I thought to be odd since my injury was on my left side. By the time I hit around 15 k it was very very VERY apparent I was in trouble. The pain on the top of my foot was excuriating I let out several very audible whimpers and sobs as I hobbled my way along the path. This was NOT going over well with me.

I would run a few meters then I really couldn't manage another step. Now I have a rather high tolerance for pain, I grew up with 3 older sisters after all, so this must be painful. At least I'm hoping it's as painful as I think it is otherwise I'm going to be seriously miffed at myself.
So I would undo my shoe massage my foot and put the shoe back on and I could run again for a tiny bit. By this time Josef had lapped me. Which bothered me. Not that I dislike Josef, far from it, I just hate being lapped. I tend to get competetive at races - and I don't like being passed by folks that I have worked hard to get by.
I saw Marie K at around the 18 kilometer mark I think & the whole time I was thinking how the heck am I going to take another step. Then when I noticed it was Marie and she had her camera out. CRAP!! Great now I have to run! Step - Ow - Step - Ow - Step - Ow. I never was happier to see someone put their camera down that means I could stop running. And dammit if she didn't get me from my back side from far away and close up... Thanks Marie!

The only thing that kept going on in my mind was " I freaking HATE running in Niagara. Stinking humid, stinking injuries. Stinking Grimbsy half marathon, stinking injuries. Gone was my cheery tune that kept playing over and over in my head from the first half of the run, California Girls by Katie Perry. Now some deep dark debiliating disbelief was disassembling my mental state. Buggar that!! I was going to run this sucker in.
So at 20 K I started again. Each step was one step closer to taking off my shoes. Each step was a step closer to a cold drink. Each step was a step closer to...oh shut up Joan and just get it over and done with.
As I crossed the road I knew I wasn't that far away. Cringing around the corner and heading for the canopy cover provided by the over hanging tree branches I could make out the pink flags for path I should follow. I could hear the crowds. Then I could see them. And as I found the dip n the grassy portion of the run I saw Donni and Victoria with a huge sign - cheering me on. But honestly I couldn't even give them a woot woot. I could have perhaps given them a woot whooaa woot ooww.
I crossed & received my bling in time that was about 30 minutes slower than I wanted. However; that seems to be the theme for the day with the rest of the Barrie runners.

It was stinking hot/humid.

So after I grabbed myself a drink and a slice of pizza (ripping off the cheese) I sat with the gang near the turn on to the grass path to cheer for the rest of the crew & give big cheers for Roger for his 50th marathon. Victoria had created the most wonderful banner for him. However; oogle as we would the horizon for Rog he was no where to be seen. So I figured I had time to grab my camera out of the boot of the car to immortalize the occasion. As I hobbled back I could hear the shouts and cheers. Are you kidding me? Seriously? I'm missing this moment? Oh for crying outloud!!!
Sorry Rog!

It was terrific to cheer our runners through to the finish line. We had some newbies to the 50k distance, Jim, Shannon, Cindy, Tracy, Jennifer!! They all completed their first Ultra & should be proud of themselves. Our veteran Ultra runners and marathoners & half runners had a challenging run as well - the weather was unforgiving. It was the type of run where there was one cup of water for you to drink and one to pour down your head. We had 10kers out there as well who felt the effects of the weather and switched from the half to the 10k race.

As the last runners came in the Barrie Roadrunners were there to cheer them in as well. I am so priviledged to be associated with such a terrific bunch of people. We opened the place Friday at the kit pick up and we closed the place Saturday evening.

I felt it was a great event. Definitely on my list for next year. The course - bar the camber and the fact it's an open course, is scenic & well marked as to where to go - course marshalls at turnarounds to take numbers down. No one is left on the course. We are tracked down. The race kit - NO UNDUE PAPERS... the sweatshirts/hoodies are nice. A welcome change from the standard.
Now I understand they also are the directors for the Dirty Girls Race and The Chocolate Race. So perhaps when I'm all better I'll be giving those two a whirl.

So a number of us gathered at The Olde Winery for an apres race meal. For all its reputation I found it to be lacking in several things. 1) service 2) tastey eats. Like I said earlier things aren't often what they seem. My hummus & grilled veggie sandwich was dry and I believe missing hummus. Cindy had to ask 4 times, sweetly, for her beverage. Lamburgers were mixed up. Side salads showed up where they shouldn't with a " just share it with the others sir" as a response. Tsk Tsk Tsk. Then at the end of the meal - I was handed the wireless debit machine like I should know how to use it. Uhmm yeah my brain is severely disfunctional when it comes to stuff like that. With out a how to booklet - good luck. Even then... you take your machine's life into your own hands.
I think I'll start a restaurant review blog to supplement BRR blog where we can give reviews for other runners. Holy Hannah!! eep!

So all in all I was very pleased with the event, very dejected with my new injury which seesm to be extensor tendonitis. So much ice, rest and anti-inflams.
Rest.... eep!! How the heck am I going to do that? I have runs to run! However; if I want to get better there will be no more races this summer for me. *sobs*
I'm sorry readers, I may have very few postings in the next few months - other than perhaps a spectator!

Well I have a very busy fall schedule planned - Universe willing! 10/10/10 at the Steamtown Marathon. WOOT WOOT.

Again to all the BRR's - it was fantastic to see you all having such a wonderful day and doing so well. Now it may not have felt like it at the time - but some of you hit milestones yesterday that you should be very proud of. For the rest of you, you were out there running and giving it your all while 99% of the rest the world were sitting around doing nothing. Congratulations to you as well.

Til the next post... take care.
J

Niagara Ultra

2010-06-15T20:58:00.002-04:00

Looks like a lot of folks are off to Niagara on the lake this weekend to take part in the Niagara Ultra series of races. Races from 10k up to 50k will take place on Saturday starting with the 50k at 7am. The 50k will follow the Niagar Parkway bike path from Niagara on the Lake to the falls and back. There are quite a few RoadRunners attempting there first 50k ultra this weekend so good luck to all.

A Long Run

2010-06-15T07:07:00.003-04:00

Well, it was a rainy day.... No that was another story, but yes it did start out that way. I had thought about doing a long night run for a while, but it wasn't until last week that I realized that I had a weekend where I could actually get it done, providing my support crew could make it too. And they did, Kev, Rick, Theo Roger, Tracy, Sandra, Terry and a guest appearacne by Chris B.
The plan was to run from home, meet Rick and Kevin downtown and then hit the rail trail all the way to Orillia, meet up with Roger and Theo and then run back, leaving Rick and Kevin in Orillia.
The run started well, Joan ran with me from home to keep to a nice slow pace, which felt good. Got down to meet KevO and Rick right on time and said our good byes to Joan and Tracy who'd driven Rick down and would offer support on the route as needed. The first thing I noticed was the humidity, it wasn't hot, but it was sticky. 8pm and we were on our way from downtown Barrie on the rail trail. Rick said that Chris Battaglia was talking of joining us, but we didn't see him at the Hooters parking lot, so off we went. But as we approached the Johnson's Beach parking lot there was Chris waiting for us, so he joined us to run a short 20k +. This was after doing the 5 peaks 12k earlier in the day, which Rick had done earlier. And they call me crazy!!!
From this point on we ran on talking as we went about probably nothing but running. I had packed pretty well everything I could think of in my Camelback including my cell phone for emergencies and if anyone felt the urge to call. As we approached the 4th line and Chris was preparing to turn around the phone rang. Sandra Lalonde had nothing better to do on a Saturday night than pick up with three guys running in the wilds off to Orillia and wanted to know where she could meet us, whihc is what she did at the 5th line. At this point the darkness was staring to settle in, so as we played with our lights trying to figure out if we actually needed them or not yet Kevin was giving us our pace information averaging 6:20/km with walk breaks. So maybe a little quicker than necessary, but we knew that that wouldn't last.
Tracy met us at the 11th line, although we could see her headlights from the 9th. It was rather eerie in the dark, not being able to tell distances very well or not being able to see anything beyond the 40 feet of the lights beem. We stocked up on what ever we needed, Kevin and Rick put in an order for Corona's with lime for their finish and off we went again.
As we approached the 15th line we noticed a cop car turn on its flashing lights as it stopped by the trail. We thought it might be us they were after, but Sandra said it was Terry, as he was going top wait here for Sandra and would be sitting in his car watching DVD's (what kind of movies was Terry watching???), we came upon Terry and rather cute blonde lady OPP officer and after an explanation of what we were doing and a few laughs we were back on the road, I mean trail. Having never done this route before, I found that the trail from the 15th line seems to go on forever. I thought from the description the Home Hardware would be just around the corner. Oh no, another 8k pipes up Kevin! I was struggling a bit at this point, it seemed it was taking for ever to get to Orillia even though we were "already there". One of the few "wild" animals we saw crossed our trail at this point. A white cat, I think kevin was scarred as he was very quiet then.
Finally we arrived at Home Hardware and met with relief team and my posse to get me back. A quick change of shirts, shoes and socks, refill of the camel back, a couple of mouthfulls of chocolate milk (a mistake) and we were off. Switching from trail shoes to road shoes felt very strange at this point, not helping my mental state. I was in serious doubts as to whether I would get another 5k down the road never mind 35k. We had arrived at the rendezvous at 12:01 am and left again at about 12:20.
The first couple of k were a struggle, but I put my head down and ran the 20 minutes of running and 5 minutes of walking was being widdled down and I had to tell Theo and Roger to expect to stop more frequently and for longer walks occassionaly.
We would walk and soon get used to Rogers' call "thirty seconds". Eventually Theo was calling him Sgt. Shultz. Each line seemed to become a beacon and step closer to finishing, but again it took along time just to get to the 15th and start the countdown. Before the 13th I got a 2nd wind, if you could call it that. I pushed hard and then saw lights, someone was waiting for us. It was Terry and Sandra, who offered me a ride back. If they had asked me about 5 minutes earlier I would have jumped at it, but I had a new jump in my step at this point. They told us they had left water at the 9th , so we had something else to look forward to. It was a long way from the 13th to the 9th, a lot of walking, but we did get to see an owl in a tree by the trail. Which we wouldn't have seen if we hadn't been walking.
At the 9th I sat down refilled my camel back and stayed sitting for a little bit, before heading back out. It was about this time that we laughed everytime Theo would say something, I would look over and blind him with my head lamp. This would happen regularly over the next couple of hours, getting the same reaction.
The longest stretches were between the 9th and the 7th and the 7th to the 5th no even number lines whcih dragged on, but in hind site we pushed it harder here, well at least Roger pushed us harder. A big step came in crossing the Ridge Road at the 4th line, this seemed like it close to home. Passing the parking area by the 1st line felt like we were almost there and we ran fairly hard at this point, amazed to see I could still run. We walked up Shanty Bay Rd. to Crestwood and dreaded running down the other side, but Sgt. Shultz drove us on. we passed to Barrie Cop cars sitting in the Johnson Beach parking lot who mustn't have noticed us until we entering the trail again, but then shone there spot lights on us. We thought they may chase us, but nothing became of it and we weren't going to out run anyone. As we approached the marked kilometre on Kempenflet Dr. Roger remarked about timing our second to last k and how funny it would be if we ran a 5:15k at this point, I wasn't smiling. But strange things happen and we did puch the pace and ran it in 5:23. After almost 50 miles! Theo's car looked like an angel waiting to take me away. I took off my socks and shoes, camle back and sat waiting fo the ride home. Roger decided he hadn't had enough and ran home.
We had got back to Barrie at 4:30ish. My watch said 9 hours and 11 minutes. Theo took me home and Joan met me at the door, "what would you like", "a beer" I said and a cold bath. I sat in the cold bath drinking my beer, finihsed it and had a hot shower and went to bed and couldn't sleep!
An amazing journey and great preperation for my hundred mile run coming in July. Many thanks to the crew, Rick, Kevin, Sandra, Tracy, Chris, Theo, Roger and of course Joan.

Run For Vaughn 10K

2010-05-30T21:27:00.002-04:00

Ok...here's what should be the last race entry post for one busy Sunday of racing.
Our own Theo Bosch was 9th overall and placed 1st in his age group at the Run for Vaughn 10k today. Way to go Theo!

Toronto Women's Half

2010-05-30T20:28:00.002-04:00

And on that note, this WAS a great event today. Let's hear it from a women's perspective: While the novelty of last year's inaugural run may not have been felt as strongly in this second running of the event, the firefighters were no less burly - three times over! - and the chocolate just as deserved. The bling - I mean medal ;-) - will show off the tans everyone got today.

There were a lot of events on around the province today, and with this one filling up in November you either commit or you don't, but I think everyone who went down from this area enjoyed a Toronto race without feeling like you're in Toronto. (Some may know that my own attraction to this event is the route: it was our daily training ground for high school x-c and track... I was even pleased to have a former schoolmate shout a cheer as she was volunteering.)

The announcer today is involved with the Longboat 5&10k held on Toronto Island each September. If you like a park setting and the intimacy of a longstanding group of participants in an otherwise well-attended event, this one should find its way onto your calendar.

Happy trails!

Toronto Womens Half Marathon

2010-05-30T19:16:00.002-04:00

Another event that took place to day was the Toronto Womens Half Marathon. In its second year that was a great representation from this area. Congratulations to all who took part on a very warm day.

Barrie results
Orillia Results
Innisfil Results
Aurora Results

Ottawa Marathon

2010-05-30T19:06:00.003-04:00

Today was also the Ottawa Marathon and half Marathon with some great results, inlcuding a new world record in the Marathon for Rick Ball, 2:57. Not to be outdone Bosteen Klint qualified for Boston again, way to go Steen.

Barrie Results

Barrie Half Results

Buffalo Marathon

2010-05-30T16:25:00.002-04:00

Another successful run by Roger Ison at the Buffalo Marathon today as he ran 3:36 in what must have been a very warm run. Congrats Roger!

Sulphur Springs Ultra

2010-05-30T14:08:00.008-04:00

Feels great to have finished 50 MILES. It was a great day, very hot and not much air movement in the trails. It was tough to do 4 laps at 20k each as the day got hotter so I really had to slow it down if I was to finish. There was Kevin,Catherine,Keith and myself doing the 50 miler, Bill and Chris doing the 50k, and Tracy and Lorna doing the 25K. The course was well shaded in most areas and had its share of hills including 2 biggies; one that was steep and long, but the hardest one was called the Gulch, it was like about 3 winding Dundonald hills together..ouch! I am gratefull to all my running friends for all the years of advice, support, and training with them.
I certainly had lots of time to think out there, over 12 hours!
Congratulations to everyone

Sulphur Springs

2010-05-30T13:08:00.003-04:00

On Saturday May 29th, a number of Barrie RoadRunners gathered for a run in the woods down in Ancaster, near Hamilton. For some it would longer than others, some would be exploring new distances and seeing what their bodies are capable of doing. Catherine Harding and Rick MacLean were attempting their first 50 Mile race, while Kevin O'Neill and Keith Lascelles were attempting their second 50 miler. Bill Lovett was taking part in his first 50k, along with Chris Battaglia who was doing his second this year. Tracy MacLean and Lorna Avery Cooper were running the 25k.
It was an early morning on Saturday (4am) to get up and get to the race for a 6 am start for the 50 milers and those doing the 100. The rest were starting at 7:30. At 6am it was still warm and as we descended into the woods the humidity became noticable. the 50 mile race consisted of 4 20k loops through the Sulphur Springs area including the Dundas Vally Conservation are, it was an absolutely beautiful area, most of the run in the shade of the canopy and only short periods out in the open and even less on a short stretch of road. As shaded as it was, it was still very warm. My goal was to pace my self correctly for what I would need for my 100 miler coming up in July. I figured 20 minutes of walking and 2 minutes of walking should do it, but the 20 minutes of running should be done at a pedestrian pace, which I through out the window right from the start. First lap done in 2 hours, but the tell tale signs of trouble were already there, I was drenched in sweat. How would I survive when the sun got higher in the sky? Shade or no shade, it was going to get warmer. A refill of the secret formula in my water bottle and off I went for the second lap, I expected to do the second lap 15 minutes longer than the first and came in at 2 hours 13 minutes, not a bad guess, but still too fast and as I went out on the third lap the doubts had set in deeply. The first lap I had gone through 1 bottle of fluid, the second I had gone through 3, on the third lap I couldn't quench my thirst fast enough, my legs were feeling fatigued, my feet felt like they were on fire and hurting. Instead of doing 20 minutes of running and 2 minutes of walking it had almost become 20 minutes of walking an 2 running. Before the 10k mark of the 3rd lap I had decided that I wasn't accomplishing anything conituing on this way and decided to drop. Unfortunately I still had to climb out of the ravine up the worst hill on the course.
Others faired much better. Rick, even though really doubting himself at the end of the 2nd lap soldiered on and had great 3rd lap and finished in 12 hours and 8 minutes. Catherine with Kevin's pacing kept at it and finished in 12 hours and 42 minutes. A great job by both, with a special credit to Kevin, who didn't even sweat throughout the race.
The 50k participants had a great race too. Bill Lovett finished 9th overall and 3rd in his age group, in 4:42. Chris Battaglia finished in 6:16.
The 25k racers were Lorna Avery Cooper in 3:39 and Tracy MacLean in 3:40. A good day had by all (almost).

The Mississauga Half Marathon

2010-05-24T22:26:00.003-04:00

Blap blap blap blap blap blap blap blap blap blap.

That's the sound my alarm clock makes. Annoying ain't it?!

My cell phone alarm has a really annoying pinging noise. God I hate them both some days. But not the morning of May 16th. Okay maybe just a little. It was freaking early ... again. 4am.
It was time to get ready to catch the coach to the Mississauga Marathon. My goal race. Acckkk... No marathons yet, so half marathon is better than a poke in the eye with a sharp stick. Right? I'm very grateful that I'm running! Half marathon is GREAT!!

My calf felt good. It was ready. I mean woot woot!! Lots of walking, swimming & cycling. I hadn't decided what I was going to do, meaning I had signed up for the half marathon run - but didn't know if I'd walk it or not. See you can walk in a running event, but you can't run in a walking event.
So depending on how my calf felt that would dictate how I would do the event.

But morning of - I felt ready go. My calf did. I managed to get to the bus despite some work issues that had cropped up at 4:30am. Sick or what?! Ack.

Cindy & I had tossed around the idea of doing the race together. She was just doing this as a recovery run from the Flying Pig & I wanted to test my running legs - maybe. But as we runners hang out with enablers - and get caught up in the joie de vivre that is running; I had decided the minute I got off the coach that it would be running as far as I could go.
I've done the half at Mississauga for a couple of years now and know the route. It's fairly flat except for the area around UTM. Slight hill there.

So I just happened to run into the MacLeaniacs & Cindy. Tracy was running for a PB & Rick was saving himself for some 50 miler. Go figure. LOL.
So Cindy and I banded together, determined to run with only the expectation to finish. I know myself well enough though. It would take a lot of self discipline to not run like a woman possessed to do at the very least a course PB.

I don't know what it is, but the first few K really bug me. Not sure if it's because we are running through the city proper or what, but it just annoys the heck out of me. I don't really start enjoying it till about the 5K mark.
Then heading down toward UTM I start to really enjoy the race.
I managed, much to my surprise, to power up the hill. I thought for sure I'd be huffing and puffing and walking up the great big hill, but I didn't. I don't know if I'd have wanted to run another one like it right away, but I was feeling really good.
Cindy was keeping me well in check, which I appreciate because every now and again I could feel my calf sing out a sharp note or two.

We had lots of questions about our compression socks though, lots of interesting conversation about them. I really love my compression socks. They make such a noticeable difference for me. I have a pair of compression calf sleeves and two pairs of Recovery Socks. I'll wear a pair for racing and then another pair for recovery. I highly recommend them.

Oh sorry back on point. The Race.

As we were heading toward the 15/16 K mark Cindy remarked that we should be running into some of the marathoners - like Old What's His Name... Kevin. Wouldn't you know it not more than a few minutes later we could make out this red blur speeding by us and the faint noise that noise the Road Runner makes ... BEEP BEEP ZZZZOOOM!!

After spitting out the sand and dust we had to eat as Kevin streaked by we managed a few hoarse rounds of " GOOO KEVIN, GOOOOOOO!!!" and " Then Kenyans went thataway" aahhh it was nice to see a Speed Demon in action. I felt the odd pang of regret deep in my belly that I wasn't doing the 42.2k this time. Then I realized it was just nausea from me stepping through the rip in the time space continuim that Kevin created ... ahahaha.. ahahah..

It was a bit odd for awhile having the Full Marathoners running with us at their 32K mark for a couple of kilometers. I felt somewhat bad for them as they needed to dodge the half marathoners beforet they had to stay to the right to do the last 10k of their race. We would shout of courtesty - stay to the right Marathoner coming through" It was nice to see the halfers do so, nothing like good running etiquette I always say.

As we were passing over the bridge heading toward the 19K mark I had mentally prepared myself for what was about to happen, it happened the year before quite badly and the year before that. As you run over the bridge you get a sick feeling and your legs turn to rubber. It's almost instantenious. So as I hit the bridge I steeled myself and my mantra was " it's the bridge, it's the bridge, it's not you, it's the bridge" Just then I hear Cindy calling out to me. " Joan I'm going to pass out, I feel really sick". I dropped back a bit and started yelling " It's not you Cindy, it's the bridge" several times. Luckily she made it with out passing out. There were others not as lucky.

I really really felt good this Missy Half. I certainly felt like I had done well. I ran the entire course ( except for the walk breaks) but for the most part I really felt good and was very pleased with our time of 2:31. It didn't feel bad at all. My calf muscle held up. I didn't do anything stupid, for a change, and managed to finish it with no incident. Now mind you the next day there was a bit of aching, but nothing that didn't disipate quickly.

Though I did too much the following Wednesday and went on a hilly run. ACK. what was I thinking? I'm not quite ready for that yet folks.
I have to keep it simple and flat right now. So no Buffalo this year. I have no one running to keep me from doing something dumb. Cuz I know I won't stop me.
Next year. Next year.

Just so you know the bling is very nice & the apres run food wasn't too bad either. Bags and bags of nuts almonds or cashews, apples, bananas, water and gatorade. It was all very tasty. Nuts, now there is an interesting choice for protien, but hey they were yummy.

Then back out to the 300 metre mark to cheer on the rest of the halfers and full marathoners coming in. It was a steamy hot sticky day - but they all did fantastically and I couldn't be happier for my fellow Barrie runners.

Until the next run. May you have wings on your feet and the wind at your back.

The Hazel 5k - 'Nuff Said

2010-05-24T21:17:00.004-04:00

Chelsea has been bugging and bugging me since the Frosty 5k in March for her next race. "When can we go Mum? When is there another 5K that I can do?"

With little coersion I talked her into the Hazel 5k on May 15th. And low and behold they had ... yep you guessed it. B-L-I-N-G.

So Saturday afternoon we headed toward the Cawartha Community Centre. Which I happen to know you have to exit on to Cawartha Road - I know that I can get lost in a phone booth, but I've been driving the 400/401/427/QEW for the last uhmmm 26 yrs. So yeah I know that an address like 1399 Cawartha Road would need for me to exit on to Cawartha Road from the QEW Hamilton. Well not according to my GPS... stupid machine. Anyway - after turning around several times ( yah Chelsea just checking to make sure we aren't being followed... looks like the coast is clear) and getting back on the QEW and exiting on the Cawartha Road we found the longest line queue of cars I had seen for a while & figured we hit the right spot. ( Stupid GPS)

We created a parking spot erhmm FOUND a parking spot and headed to the centre to hop on a bus to the start line at the Lakefront Promenade Park. First though a quick stop inside the centre; Chelsea was none to keen on the port-o-potties after some of the horror stories she's heard me tell.

Nice facility.

We all lined up at the start - unusual I know... Hazel McCallion was there to greet all the runners & walkers - give us a little pep talk and blow the horn for the start. She was even at the finish line at the Port Credit Memorial Park, congratulating everyone as the crossed the finish line. That Dame is a tough old bird. Not as tough as her minder... but tough none the less.

We started with a really good pace, it was brisk and with purpose. Though on the way to the event Chelsea said she wasn't sure she'd get a PB because she hasn't been putting the training in like she should. WOW - finally I think she's getting the connection. I was bursting with pride. She's putting the pieces together. She just might get it after all TRAINING IS IMPORTANT!! I know I was gob smacked. You could have knocked me over with a feather.

Then as we were rounding a corner she said something that TOTALLY knocked me for six. " Mum I want to run" An audiable gasp could be heard escaping my lips. " Did you say run?" " Yah, I want to run"
AAAAAAALLLLLRIGHTY then. So we ran from one park bench to the next. Then walked. Then the next set. Then between lamp posts. She burned herself out a little but - but that's okay. It's all a learning experience and she's been bitten by the running bug. WOOT WOOT. I had hoped that she would PB - but alas it wasn't to be.
Chelsea did however finish RUNNING across the finish line at 47:11 and getting her first REAL 5K medal.

It is good to know that even through these turbulent teen years we can still bond over bling. *sighs* It does a mother's heart good.

I'm proud of my little girlie!
And if any of the folks that read this blog know of any 5K events that have bling - in the GTA, Golden Horseshoe or Simcoe area - drop me a comment. Chelsea is ready for her next challenge.

Way to go!!

Whitby International North Marathon

2010-05-24T08:54:00.002-04:00

It looks like Tracy MacLeaniac couldn't resist the urge to squeeze in another Marathon on an off weekend. A week after finishing the Mississauga half, Tracy made the last minute decision to sign up for the inaugural Whitby International North Marathon. Congratulations Tracy on finishing on what here in Barrie was a very muggy day, hopefully there were some cooling winds blow off the lake for you. Also competing was Chris Battaglia. How many is that this year Chris?

Chris's time: 3:58

Tracy's time: 5:52

Noah Dennison's Mississauga Marathon

2010-05-21T22:40:00.006-04:00

Of all the incredible and amazing stories that come from a Marathon, here is another one from Mississauga Marathon 2010.
Noah Dennison was diagnosed with Autism last year at 8 years old.Even though this presents some balance and co-ordination issues, he is still a runner like his Barrie Roadrunner parents Bruce and Karen Dennison. Noah completed his 4th race in 2 years in Mississauga by following a 6 week training program that totalled his running distance to 40k. Then, he completed the 42.2k distance with a 2k run and crossed the same finish line as his Mom had earlier. Noah ran with his Dad who when asked him if he wanted to stop at the water station he said "no time for water" and kept going.He was so happy to tell Karen he had run the whole way without stopping. Noah recieved a medal and a 42k certificate.
His other races are The Disney 400m, The 1K cub run, and 2.87K Molson Indy Lap.
You can see by the picture how great Noah feels, and Karen and Bruce are so proud of his new found self confidence and achievement. Way to go Noah! We'll have to see if Bill can hook you up with a Barrie Roadrunner Shirt.

Volunteer Oportunity for Athletically Minded Indivduals

2010-05-16T15:26:00.001-04:00

Wow! Track and field must be making a comeback... Barrie's Special Olympics athletics team - the Barrie Trackers - has an impressive membership of 38 athletes this year. In order to accommodate all those athletes, we are putting out the call for more volunteers.
The club has athletes in the sprints (100m, 200m, & 400m) and middle distance (800, 1500) and trains in long and standing jump, shot put, and hurdles. There is a great range of abilities, with each athlete always trying to do their own best in their events.
Our athletes have enjoyed great success in their sport. We had excellent representation at last year's Provincial Games and have three athletes attending National Games this July.
We don't hesitate to sign volunteer service forms for high school students.
Please consider coming out and joining us on Mondays from 6:30 to 8:00 at Eastview. Please email Hellaina for more information and to confirm your interest (we have a bit of a wonky schedule for May 31/June7/June 14): vanroth@csolve.net. THANKS!

Mississauga Marathon

2010-05-16T15:13:00.003-04:00

Sunday was Marathon day in Mississauga and what a day it turned out to be for Barrie RoadRunners. Many PB's and Boston Qualifiers to be had. althoguh I can't list all the results here they are available at SportStats. Some noteable results were Kevin O'Neil with a 1 minute PB in 2:53. Bill Lovett with another great time 3:09 (How soon till he goes sub 3?), Brendan Kavanagh 3:10. Also Dave Jupp at 3:25:50 qualified for Boston in his first marathon. Brett Jacques qualified at 3:28:07
IF there are any noteable results that are worth mentioning let me know. There were over 120 Barrie and area runners in the Marathon and half Marathon today. Great job by all.

Mississauga Marathon

2010-05-14T05:02:00.003-04:00

Did you know there are over 120 participants from Barrie in the Mississauga Marathon this weekend? This is a huge number representing all events including almost a 50/50 split in the Half and Full Marathon, WOW! There are many others from close by areas as well like Innisfil, Orillia, and I wish everyone a great race and I will be cheering you in at the finish line!

When Pigs Fly

2010-05-10T14:18:00.002-04:00

“Come fly with us the first Sunday of May”, that’s the tag line for Cincinnati’s Flying Pig Marathon, and fly we did.

Cindy Marcelli, Sam Furlong and I had planned this run since last year’s Niagara Falls Marathon Expo. IT WAS A PINK MARATHON… BOOYAAAHHH.. I was going. Damn straight I was going!
I signed up in December and eagerly awaited the monthly installment of the Squeal, the Flying Pig’s E-Newsletter.
Even with my bulging muscle I was determined to go, I’d walk if I had to. So I did. I decided that I would walk the half marathon, I couldn’t see myself being able to finish the course in the allotted time given, being the novice walker that I was.
Plus I had looked at the course elevation. Hills from 5.5 mile mark until the 11mile mark for the half marathon and similar for the full marathon, until it broke from the half at the 8 mile mark and then rolling hills until the 21st mile. I’ll take Half Marathon Walking for a Finish Alex!

We piled in Cindy’s car and headed out to Cincinnati with high hopes of the race to come. Weather had the temperature in the mid 20’s with thunder showers. Fingers crossed for just showers. Aaaaack.
I had packed for all possibilities this time. There would be no repeat of Disney this time. At least I thought I had packed for all possibilities, for the weather, but apparently not for running. I had left my shoes at the front door. Zout alors! Ahh well, I had planned on buying new Saucony’s while I was there at any rate.

We crossed the border with little hassle, though the crossing officer did find it odd that we ALL knew each other and we ALL were going to the same race and we were ALL from the same town. “We belong to the same running club”... you could see the light turn on at that point. Nice girl, not the sharpest hair pin turn on the map though.

The trip down the I-75 was cool! Gas prices were terrific, as were the prices for the snick-snacks. Hard to find healthy though, but then again perhaps I wasn’t looking that hard. LOL.

We signed into the Millennium hotel downtown Cincinnati with little incident. Though there was some discussion about the male front desk staff’s doubling as a male review later that evening…. Girls will be Girls.

We headed off the Expo and WOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Was I ever impressed. The only down side was the T-shirt, poster & sports bag pick was at the OTHER end of the Expo – so you had no choice but to go through the entire Expo. NOT that I wouldn’t have, but I like having the option not to.
I had to switch my marathon to the half marathon – there was a $10 cost, but I had entered so early this year I had a special discounted discount, so the $10 wasn’t too bad. And they were really nice about it as well. No hassles. None, the switch over was painless. The only thing I would improve is the communication between runner and administration when it comes to deferring. I had tried to email the administration to request a deferral and that took about 2 weeks. Then there were no details as to when I would know. It would be very handy to have been advised from the get go that deferrals are sent out AFTER the marathon if approved.

As for the Expo, it was brilliant. LOTS of PIG paraphernalia, much pink everywhere. I was in heaven. Yippee. Yah for me.
I managed to find myself a pair of Hurricanes – size 8 – pink detailing. Does it GET any better?
We got some freebees along the way. I got a Saucony water bottle from the “official” Saucony stall;sad as they were they didn’t have my shoes in stock, they were pleased that I stuck with Saucony and found my shoes at a different exhibitors stall. Hence the water bottle, my gift for being loyal to their brand.
We ran into the Officers at the Air Force Marathon stall, they talk a good talk. I just may do that this year. We’ve had a few RoadRunners go there last year and had nothing but good things to say, perhaps it’s time to send the female contingency amongst the Air Force pilots. <<>>

Off we went for a nice Italian meal at Campinello’s for dinner. We walked down 5th Street, turned right at the Fire Hall and down Centre Street to our restaurant. Wow. The food was great, not a lot of vegetarian options, but okay. We were greeted by a gentlemen at the bar, the biggest fellow I have seen close up, I didn’t realize we posed a security threat… we were seated. In the back corner of the first floor, it’s got basement apartment charm really. Our waitress, was apparently the only person that could serve us, a rather quirky rule – since we never saw her once, our servers were a mishmash of the bartender, the busboy, the cook himself. I don’t think we stopped laughing or bothering the restaurant staff. But give us our fair do; utensils are a requirement to eat pasta with in civilized society. Oh how they laughed at we quirky Canadians. They could almost talk hockey as well, right up until they said “ the Habs are going down” – at that point it was time to pay the bill and leave. It’s okay for we Toronto fans to dis the Habs, but that’s where I draw the line.

Our trip back to the hotel was fraught with adventure as we passed the fire hall. We were invited in to have a look, then to sit up in the fire truck, try on the coats and hats & have our pictures taken with the handsome firefighters on hand. Who needs the male review when you have friendly firemen at hand… <<>>

Saturday early morning bade us hello with a seriously wicked thunder and lightening storm followed by a torrential downpour, we had our brekkie at the hotel, and then toddled off to the expos again – just cuz it was so good the first time. And it was close – we wouldn’t get to wet.
As Sam, Cindy and I wandered around the Marathon Merchandise area I heard my name being called… What the?? Ahhh it was another Barrite, Tigera Turner! WOOT WOOT another RoadRunner – there can never be enough of us running an event.

After dropping our packages off in our room it was time to take a tour of Macy’s and Victoria Secrets for a few hours before heading back to the hotel and prepping for dinner. We opted for the Runners Buffet Special that the hotel had put on. Lots of white pasta & salad, fruit and dessert, all reasonably priced. And off for an early night we went.
Or so we thought.

Alarms set, running gear set out, bibs, shoes, hats, rain gear… yep. The rain was not due to stop any time soon. Our only prayer was that the thunder & lightening would cease prior to the starters horn.
As we lay in bed giggling and chortling about the things running through our minds we finally managed to quiet ourselves sufficiently to get some sleep, now if we could only get the mariachi band to stop. We were 17 floors up – single paned windows, and we could hear ever pitch change that the singer of the Latino band was hitting.
So a quick call down to the front desk confirmed our worst nightmare – there was a bar attached to the hotel that was playing live music and it wouldn’t close until 2:00am. Wonderful, can we speak to a manager please. This is the official race hotel for the Flying Pig and you have a dance bar open until 2:00am playing LOUD music when runners have a 6:00am start? Oh there isn’t a bar? It’s part of the Flying Pig festival? It stops when? 11pm? Well that is far more reasonable. Thank you? Where’s the dance bar in the hotel? There isn’t one? Ahh okay… Good to know. True to their word at 11:00pm the music stopped. BAM.. No messing around there folks.

5:00am came as quickly as the rain did. Luckily the thunder and lightening had eased off. We donned on our Pig rain ponchos and headed out the door. We slopped our way to the start line which was 0.6 miles from the hotel and squeezed in to the melee at the start line.
It rained a lot with it easing up as we came to the 5 mile mark. The first mile was interesting – we trudged through downtown Cincinnati on our way to the bridge to Covington Kentucky. We had a wonderfully brisk pace on with the hopes of a sub 3 half marathon walk. As none of us had ever done a walk of this caliber, it was going to be a “walk” in progress.
We clicked off the miles to the bridge back to Cincinnati. Cindy spotted a pink hat and suggested that I go pick it up, it was pink after all. So after a moments debate and some coaxing from Cindy I ran back to pick the hat up. Apparently it was but a rouse to get me to break my rather oppressive pace, they needed the break?!?! With friends like that….

The whole way through the race we were met with “ Are you REALLY from Canada?” why yes we REALLY are. “Thank you so much for coming to our race!” They were so appreciative and friendly, warm and sincere. Why along the 6 mile mark we were beset by an American runner that had gone to Western University and felt the need to have us sing the Canadian National anthem with her. Not to be out done, we sang the American Anthem sans aide. Then the British … we started the Swedish but I had spied a Gold Lamee Elvis and ran screaming up to him. It was a photo op to be sure, mind you I’m not sure about an Elvis impersonator that sings to Neil Diamond tunes…
At the 8 mile mark things had cleared up weather wise and it was the turn off for the full marathon runners. Cindy had hummed and haaa’d about doing the full. She felt good enough so we sent her off on her own to finish the last 18 miles. I tell you – I was so tempted to veer off along with her, but knew I’d be only hurting myself in the long run.

Sam and I continued our steady climb up Cincinnati’s finest hills, there were many cries of “not long now” or “it’s down hill from here”. Yeah not so much buddy. I read the elevation chart I know it doesn’t start downhill until the 11th mile; this is only the 10th mile. I may not do math, but even I can do the math on that one.
And down hill it was – HOLY SMOKES. I had to run down the hill because the idea of walking down that was more than I could bear. My glutes, hip flexors and core were screaming in protest at the thought of walking down that hill, running was my only respite at that point.
Boy do I miss running. It felt so good! So good in fact I ran a little bit more. At about the 12.5 mile point Sam suggested that we continue to run all the way to the finish line, I couldn’t say yes quickly enough, she didn’t have to ask me twice!
We came in at 3:02 – just over my hope of a sub 3 but I was still happy with the result.

We went through the finishers chute, got our medal, water, chips removed, and headed towards the food stalls. There was donuts, bagels, Yo-pops, Lays chips, Cheetos, Doritos, fruit cups, bananas, apples, orange slices. It was a food festival. Heck there was a beer stall on the other side of the runners’ area. WOOT WOOT.

We quickly showered and changed and made it back to the finish line to see Cindy come in at 5:45. That lady truly hauled ass and did a negative split to finish as quickly as she did. Not only that, she looked as fresh as a daisy. On our way back to the finish line for Cindy – Sam and I ran into Tigera on her way back. Sadly Tigera didn’t have as much fun on her run as we did in our half or Cindy in her full. That’s too bad, it’s sad when you travel so far and don’t have a good time or enjoy your race.
I would, however; highly recommend this race for anyone looking for a fun run. You may not get a PB out of it as there are several miles of steady uphill running in the half and full (and then rolling hills there after in the full.) However; for sheer fun and pure PIG pleasure this race is, if I may mix my metaphors, the cats meow.
Two Joannie thumbs up on this race!! Next year – look out, I’m going to be recovered and injury free running the full!

I must say these American cousins of ours really know how to throw a Marathon. Holy smokes, not only did we get the Tech Shirt, but they also gave us a running bag with the Flying Pig patch embroidered on – nice quality stuff, and a poster. Woot woot. Friendly pleasant volunteers, great support through out the race. Why there were folks on their porches cheering us on, bands, cheering squads. There was lots and lots of participation from the citizens of Cincinnati & neighbouring Covington Kentucky.
I think the folks of Toronto should take a page out of the books of the local support crews down south. They love “their” race and embrace it. Everyone is PIG mad for the weekend; I can only imagine what it’s like for the month leading up to the race. All the shops, restaurants and people are completely tuned in to getting this race going. Last year the Flying Pig brought in $7.5 million dollars in revenue to local business owners. That’s a lot of money folks, we could sure use that don’t you think. Time to embrace the race Toronto, make it yours!

This race gets 5 out of 5 pigs.

Illinois Marathon 2010

2010-05-08T10:04:00.006-04:00

The race was May 1st, the doubt, it was going to take place started April 30th as Danny Churchward, Tracy, and myself were finishing the 11 hour drive to Champaign/Urbana Illinois. We had the local radio classic rock station on in the car and we kept hearing this loud buzzing which was interupting the music every 15 mins or so. As we were parking at the University of Illinois, site of everything from Expo, Start, and Finish, we realized that the buzzing on the radio was followed by local weather warnings of tornadoes in the area. That explained the 45mph winds going on. So once inside the expo and talking to the locals, they get these warnings all the time in the Mid-West and emergency procedures are in place just in case, but not likely to see a twister anyway.Unfortunately, the weather forcast for Saturday was thunderstorms including lightning, which they had rumoured would also postpone or even cancel all races.Thankfully this didnt happen, instead the clouds cleared, the wind ceased, and by mile 4 the sun came out for one hot and humid marathon.Great, I think? Our sunglasses are in the car because its supposed to rain!

This was a 10 out of 10 Roger recommended race.I loved the course, mostly flat, the poeple, non stop from start to finish actually said thanks for running here. Awesome shirt,medal, and food after was Poppa John's Pizza and Pasta. The finish, last mile all downhill, was into University of Illinois Stadium from the endzone to the finish line right on the 50 yd line were you could see yourself on the jumbotron screen. You couldn't help but love this set up. Danny hadn't run a marathon in well over a year and had a strong run. Tracy and I dont do so well in the heat but still enjoyed this marathon.I ran with a girl from Wawa for a while and passed a Canadian flag someone had on the sidelines. If it wasn't so far away I would do this one again, it's well worth going.The whole city, and state for that matter wears Orange, Blue, or both, or has a big"I" on their shirts. They love Illinois. So thanks to a Saturday race, we also got some shopping in, and were able to relax for a nice dinner and drinks in Michigan City Indiana. Thats as far as we travelled back after the race to split up the long drive home for the night.If you want to do marathon in Illinois and cant get into Chicago, do this one. Its very affordable and east to get around.

Vancouver Marathon

2010-05-08T09:01:00.001-04:00

Look like one of our newer members Doug Cochrane, from Thornton, ran his first half Marathon in Vancouver last weekend in 1:53:57! Congratulations Doug.

PYP 2010

2010-05-04T07:31:00.004-04:00

Barrie was well represented in all distances (12.5k, 25k, 50k) this year at the Pick Your Poison (PYP) out in Horseshoe Valley. A new and challenging 12.5k loop course that offers a spectacular view from atop the final ascent (ski hill) that leads down to the finish. Tradition is beginning to dictate that we be accompanied by rain and thunder for part of the race but we were also blessed with mild temperatures. Mud soaked and water logged all had smiles as they finished up their respective last laps and were awarded the coveted "skull" socks. This is a small race that is well organized and supported. If you are a trail fan you should check it out in 2011!

Illinois Marathon Results

2010-05-01T18:42:00.002-04:00

In hot, humid conditions Danny Churchward (3:52), Rick MacLean (4:28), and Tracy MacLean completed the Illinois Marathon today. Luckily there were no twisters reported. Looking forward to the report from Rick.

Pick Your Poison Results

2010-05-01T18:28:00.002-04:00

Unofficial results for Barrie RoadRunners etc.

12.5k -
Kelly Huang - 1:22
Peter Ashworth - 1:27
Lorna Avery Cooper - 1:38
Jenn Thurston - 1:47
Leslie Wright - 1:47
Angela Willows - 2:01

25k -

Krista Bolyea 2:13 (1st female)
Dawn Hamel 2:18
Shawn Patton - 2:18
Greg Cormack - 2:39
Brenda East - 2:58
Sandra Lalonde - 3:03

50k -

Keith Lascelles - 5:15
Oliver Owens - 6:18
Chris Battaglia - 6:27
Catherine Harding - 7:35ish.

New Race in Oakville

2010-04-29T20:32:00.002-04:00

Looks there is a new race in Oakville on Tuesday June 1st to raise awareness of the 975 MW gas fired power plant being built in the neighborhood, 300m from a school, 400m from many homes and adjacent to the rail lines. I would like to know if we could advertise with a link on your site? Its a beautiful route, and easy, as there are no hills in Oakville.

http://www.c4ca.org/component/content/article/1-latest-news/146-run-4-clean-air-

More Races this Weekend

2010-04-29T20:07:00.004-04:00

The racing season is heating up! More races this weekend including the Local trail race Pick Your Poison, the Macleaniacs are travelling to Champagne, Illinois for the Illinois Marathon, Cindy Marcelli, Samantha Furlong and Joan van Hilten are going to Cincinnati, Ohio for the Flying Pig Half marathon.

Pick Your Poison is being run at Horseshoe Resort with 12.5k, 25k and 50k races on tap. More information can be found on the web site Pick Your Poison.

Mercedes-Benz 10K Oakville

2010-04-26T18:01:00.002-04:00

The weather wasnt quite as nice in Oakville as it was for racers elsewhere, but we had a great time. The rain held off until the start of the race then it drizzled non stop. The course, fast and flat is a great place for a PB, but not with a strong head wind from 6k to the finish. I highly recommend doing this one with all the great prizes they drew for, like a $4800 cruise, hundreds of dollars in gift cards, and the incredible 1 year lease on a brand new Mercedes. Now thats value for your race entry. Congrats to all.